Several Northern European ports are currently experiencing delays in unloading vessels due to either congestion or a series of port strikes.

We reported the congestion issues at the Port of Felixstowe back in November, where high demand and capacity restrictions has gradually led to slower processing and longer turnaround times.

The port seems to have been the worst impacted of all European ports and reports suggest vessel waiting times are currently anywhere between 10 and 20 days. The issues have led to vessels switching to alternative UK ports and the new Gemini Cooperation dropping the port from its schedules.

Bremerhaven is another port that is experiencing congestion, but it’s waiting times are understood to be around three days.

Meanwhile, two major European ports are currently being impacted by ongoing labour disputes.

Rotterdam was subject to a port strike last weekend and is braced for further disruption due to a dispute with one of its terminal operators over port automation. Ongoing actions are expected, which may not be announced in advance, varying from slowdowns to full on strikes.

Le Havre is also currently being affected by a series of port strikes. Four hour stoppages have already begun and are due to continue today, February 20th and February 24th. Unions have also announced a three day strike period, over pension reforms, between February 26th and 28th.