The state of the global shipping industry continues to be highly unstable.
Ocean trade routes continue to face massive disruptions and backlogs from the pandemic, which has triggered:
An ongoing global container shortage crisis.
Fluctuating oil prices.
Soaring sea freight rates.
And more.
The disarray in the cargo shipping market has cascaded down supply chains creating a negative feedback loop of hold-ups, roll-overs, congestion, equipment deficit and free-times pressure.
It sounds disheartening, but we’ve prioritised making every shipment with Hillebrand Gori as hassle-free as possible.
In this post, we share a few critical and actionable tips for anyone planning to ship cargo to help brace you for the choppy waters ahead and present our exclusive 2021 shipping report and trend forecast for all 22 major ocean trade routes, compiled by our in-house experts.
The state of the shipping industry
Our route analyses and predictions are intended to guide you to make educated decisions, which may include:
Rerouting.
Switching freight transport mode.
Adopting risk-proofing measures.
Predicted trade route trends
Take action for uncertain times ahead in the shipping industry
In 2020, the situation we faced in the shipping industry was unprecedented.
Now, unbalanced demand, blank sailings, surcharges and lengthy delays are the unwelcome new normal. Volatility in the cargo shipping industry will continue for a considerable time.
You should be ready to take action now to ensure the disruption to your supply chain is kept to a minimum, even under challenging circumstances.
Fundamental steps when sea freight shipping during precarious times:
Anticipate your bookings and predict volumes
Consider Hillebrand Gori’s groupage service for beverages if shipping less than full load, departing frequently on multiple shipping routes so you can maintain optimum inventory freshness.
Consider alternative modes of transport
Air freight is especially useful for urgent or high-value deliveries, and is currently the least disruption-affected mode of cargo transport in the shipping industry.
Expect delays
If you are moving temperature-sensitive goods like beverages, consider protecting them from possible temperature fluctuations caused by long waiting times at ports.
Choose temperature-controlled containers, and check your freight insurance covers all eventualities. In a situation of temperature-controlled container shortage, Hillebrand Gori can help preserve your goods with specialised insulation liners.
Such insulation liners are particularly beneficial to cargo such as wines, beers and spirits, by reducing temperature contrast to an average of 8-11ºC. Hillebrand Gori also offers full-coverage shipping insurance.
Book your spot on containers and ships well ahead of time
This is crucial in the current global container shortage crisis and the overall state of the worldwide shipping industry.
Organise smart warehousing
Hillebrand Gori has 50+ temperature-controlled warehouses in all major strategic locations to safely store goods like alcoholic beverages, for any length of time.
Partner with a reliable freight forwarder
With Hillebrand Gori, you will benefit from:
Our longstanding and trusted network of carriers.
Customs clearing/brokerage services.
Inventory management
Supply chain management solutions
And more.
In difficult times, it’s essential to have experienced support on your side. Find out how we can help your business grow.
