Whilst most passenger airlines are still in operation, we have already seen Flybe collapse as a result of market conditions.
Air freight space, on both passenger and cargo flights, is limited and therefore comes at a premium, but we are working closely with our network of logistics providers to secure space available.
Ports around the world are either running on minimum staff or in some cases choosing to close, therefore causing considerable disruption for supply chain management.
We are working with our customers to mitigate the impact on their export and importing activities and encourage everyone to contact us to discuss any logistics concerns they have.
We are taking the necessary measures, as recommended by the Government and World Health Organisation, to ensure the health of our team, customers and suppliers is safeguarded so we can, as much as possible, ensure it is business as usual for ourselves and our customers.
Highly Affected Areas
In countries where movement restrictions are in place, or expected, we are monitoring closely and identifying the most suitable logistics arrangements available to meet our customers’ requirements.
Plan Ahead
Giving us as much notice as possible will allow us to liaise with the most appropriate logistics providers and pre-book the space you need. Last minute arrangements will, at the moment, come at a cost.
Sea Freight
- Whilst some ports are opened many of the carrier’s offices are closed and many have introduced blank sailings: “A blank sailing (a void sailing) is a sailing that has been cancelled by the carrier. This can mean that a vessel is skipping port, or that the entire string of ports is cancelled.”
- They are then applying Container Imbalance Surcharges due to the amount of inbound cargo exceeding the amount of outbound cargo, as a result of which the shipping companies are faced with large quantities of empty containers on the quayside, which are no longer used for export.
- Where ports are open there are stringent screening measures in place creating significant delays.
Air Freight
- A number of airlines have suspended routes to highly affected countries. Others are reducing flight numbers and there is no sign of this changing for the foreseeable future.
- Where routes and space on an aircraft are available, they will come at a premium rate.
- As and when flights to the highly effect countries do come back on track there will be a back log of goods to transport therefore delays are to be expected for weeks and in some cases months.
Airlines and shipping providers are constantly keeping us up to date with their service. Communication during this period is key so please let us know any queries you have regarding your shipments and we can investigate your questions and queries for you with our international network – please give us a call us on 0333 1234 747 or send us an email to sales@tudorfreight.com.