This monthly update, provided by the British Association of Removers gives a current overview of the global shipping market out of the UK. It provides HR and Global Mobility Managers with a useful and unbiased understanding of the potential challenges, cost implications and risks that may need to be planned for.
**Please note this information applies to all UK international removers and is not unique to Bournes.**
KEY UPDATES
Operational Disruptions
Schedule reliability remains inconsistent, with carriers continuing to reshuffle services at short notice. Vessel schedules are still being adjusted, and UK port calls may be altered or removed entirely. When this happens, movers must rebook onto alternative services (sometimes with higher freight costs or extended transit times) entirely outside their control. Rolling of containers remains a frequent issue, with cargo being diverted for later loading. Shipping lines efforts to maintain schedule reliability is also occasionally resulting in vessels departing before they are fully discharged or loaded, with containers not discharged being offloaded at the next port and returned via feeder vessel, delaying arrival.
ICS2 Compliance – Ongoing Challenges
The EU’s ICS2 pre-arrival security regime continues to evolve. The “Household Goods & Personal Effects” category remains under heightened scrutiny, meaning valid declarations may still be rejected during checks. Shipping lines are still adapting their processes, and additional personal information may be requested from shippers in order to meet EU requirements. Delays linked to incorrect or disputed commodity descriptions are still occurring as lines work through the regulatory detail.
Port Congestion
London Gateway and many key transhipment hubs in Europe and Asia remain heavily congested. This is contributing to longer dwell times and increased risk of containers missing intended sailings. Low Water Surcharges to Canada via the St. Lawrence River also continue, as reduced water levels restrict cargo capacity.
Transit Time Variability
Advertised transit times continue to fluctuate significantly. Southampton–Sydney routes, for example, can still vary by more than a month depending on the service pattern and whether containers are rolled. Higher demand and reduced schedule certainty mean customers should expect broader transit ranges rather than fixed ETAs.
Route Updates:
North America
The revised carrier alliances are now firmly in place, but their ripple effects continue. Most US-bound services are being funnelled through Southampton, and ports of discharge across the US continue to shift. The Transatlantic lane remains capacity-tight, with oversubscription causing elevated rates, booking cancellations and last-minute rollovers. Early space booking remains essential.
Eastbound Trades
Diversions around the Cape of Good Hope remain standard practice, and carriers still cannot predict when Suez Canal passage will resume. Middle East congestion is intensifying as omissions and void sailings create accumulating backlogs. Hapag-Lloyd reports some services are so full that roll pools are forming faster than they can be cleared.Shipments to Oceania are likewise affected, with Asian transhipment ports repeatedly rolling containers. Mediterranean services continue to experience extended routes and port omissions as vessels must turn back rather than transit through Suez.
Other Trade Routes
Services to South, East, and West Africa remain stable but limited. Reduced coverage of inland destinations continues as carriers avoid routes with poor onward infrastructure or persistent congestion.
Shipments to Latin America remain generally reliable, though clearance times in some countries still extend well beyond the free-time provided by carriers, leading to potential storage charges.
Nationality Restrictions
ONE LINE continues to refuse shipments containing personal effects belonging to Russian passport holders. Other carriers have not yet announced whether they will follow suit, so customers with this nationality must check acceptance policies carefully to avoid substantial storage costs at destination.
Equipment Availability
Container quality issues are increasing as carriers reposition larger fleets for Cape-route services. Damaged or unsuitable units are being presented more frequently, resulting in rejected equipment, re-orders and occasional missed vessel slots. This may introduce additional haulage charges through no fault of the mover.
Li-ION Batteries
The handling of lithium-ion batteries remains a major operational risk. Carriers are still inconsistent in their acceptance, and even when allowed, shipments often require hazardous cargo declarations with significant surcharges. Misdeclaration (intentional or accidental) can result in fines of approximately USD 30,000 or confiscation of goods. The BAR continues to strongly advise against including these items.
KEY ACTIONS TO MINIMISE RISK
Impact on Relocating Employees
- Quotes remain based on the sailings available at the time of pricing. If carriers alter their schedules, a revised booking may involve a different rate or extended transit.
- Early planning and longer lead times remain strongly advised to secure space.
- Carrier-imposed surcharges may be introduced with minimal notice.
- The likelihood of containers being rolled, delayed, or subject to documentation queries remains elevated.
- Freight rate volatility continues, though some stabilisation is anticipated.
Recommended Actions for Global Mobility
- Flag any specific timing constraints with your mover early so they can secure space on the most suitable services.
- Encourage planning ahead and confirm moving dates as early as possible.
- Maintain close, frequent communication with your shipping providers on any route or schedule developments affecting your key lanes.
- Ensure relocating employees understand the potential for unplanned delays and why these occur, helping manage expectations.
- Review your policy on Li-ION batteries and ensure employees know what can (and cannot) be shipped. Agree exception processes with your provider where necessary.
- Prepare employees for possible requests for additional personal information linked to ICS2 requirements.
These steps will help reduce the likelihood of unexpected charges or service disruptions during an international relocation.
If you require any further detail or have questions please don't hesitate to contact our Corporate Relocation Team.
