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 headlines
Don't have much time? Here's a quick overview of what this month's update covers. Download the full PDF document for more information.
Operational Disruptions Continue
- Shipping lines continue to make last-minute changes to routes, schedules and port stops.
- Some containers are being "rolled" (held back and moved to a later sailing) or offloaded at the wrong port and rerouted, causing delays at both ends of the move.
ETS Surcharge Increase
- The EU Emissions Trading System (a scheme designed to reduce carbon emissions by charging transport providers for the pollution their vessels produce) entered its final phase on 1 Jan 2026, meaning shipping lines now face higher environmental charges.
- As a result, surcharges on EU-linked routes have increased, and moves quoted in 2025 may now cost several hundred dollars more — even where the route itself hasn’t changed.
Port Congestion & Delay Risk
- Ports such as London Gateway and major transhipment hubs in Europe and Asia remain congested, contributing to shipment delays.
- Transhipment ports (where containers are transferred between vessels mid-route) are especially affected.
Transit Time Range Variance
- The combination of operational challenges are continuing to impact shipping lines ability to maintain advertised transit times. For example, Southampton to Sydney sailings now range from 56 to 89 days, before any delays.
North America
- Most US and Canadian services are now routed via Southampton only.
- Space remains tight due to limited vessel capacity (as a result of new shipping alliances), leading to some Booking cancellations. Delays in confirming sailings and Rollovers (containers missing their original departure)
Eastbound Routes (Asia, Oceania, Middle East)
- Most services are still rerouting around the Cape of Good Hope due to Red Sea instability, extending transit times.
- Some services that previously called at Middle East ports on routes to Asia have now been withdrawn, which is significantly affecting capacity into the region. The remaining services that do include Middle East calls are extremely full, and void sailings introduced as carriers realign their networks are creating a growing backlog of shipments.
- Shipments to Australia and New Zealand face long waits at Asian ports, leading to repeated rollovers and associated delays.
- Mediterranean services are also being disrupted, with carriers scaling back calls into the region because the traditional onward route via Suez is unavailable, forcing vessels to turn back. As a result, some ports are being omitted altogether and overall transit times are increasing.
Africa
- Services to major ports in South, East, and West Africa remain generally reliable.
- However, coverage to inland destinations and Indian Ocean Islands continues to decline due to port congestion and limited overland infrastructure.
- Where services are available, timelines are relatively stable — but options are narrowing.
Latin America
- Services to Latin America (East and West coasts, and the Caribbean) remain consistent.
- However, clearance and release at destination ports often take longer than the free storage time allowed by shipping lines.
- This can lead to additional storage charges, even when shipments arrive on schedule.
ICS2 Customs Rules
- The EU’s updated Import Control System (ICS2) requires more detailed shipper information for any move transiting EU ports.
- “Household Goods and Personal Effects” are on the EU watch list, and even valid declarations may be flagged or delayed.
Nationality-Based Restrictions
- ONE Line will not accept shipments for Russian passport holders.
- Other carriers may follow - important to check before confirming bookings to avoid risk of rejection or storage fees at destination.
Lithium-Ion Battery Warnings
- Items like e-bikes, scooters, laptops or power tools contain lithium-ion batteries, which are treated as hazardous goods.
- If included, they must be declared in advance — failure to do so could lead to heavy fines (up to $30,000) or even loss of the shipment.
- The BAR strongly recommend these items are excluded from household goods shipments.
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.
