Dear Valued Client
We wish to inform our valued customers that we are currently experiencing an increase in shipping delays ex North West Continent (NWC) and Mediterranean ports.
These disruptions are not attributable to a single cause, but rather a combination of ongoing global challenges. Our teams at origin report significant congestion and frequent schedule changes across many European and Mediterranean ports, impacting not only the South African trade lane but routes worldwide. Across all ports and routes, we are experiencing port congestion (due to strikes, bad weather and poor terminal performance), coupled with unstable or regularly altered shipping line schedules which often result in cancelled voyages or delays in transshipment.
Communication from carriers continues to be limited, and schedule changes are often implemented at very short notice, making forward planning exceptionally difficult. The ongoing congestion and schedule volatility have also created inefficiencies in landside operations. Movements by barge, truck, and rail are being affected by backlogs and reduced fluidity through terminals. In addition, container equipment shortages are being experienced in certain areas, as extended transit times and port delays result in a higher number of units being tied up in the system for longer than normal. These challenges are not isolated to any one carrier but are being experienced across all shipping lines.
SCT, together with our global partners, remains fully committed to minimising the impact wherever possible. Our teams continue to proactively monitor shipments, explore alternative routings where feasible, and maintain close coordination with all stakeholders to optimise outcomes. Given the ongoing volatility within the supply chain, we strongly encourage customers to place orders as early as possible and to allow an additional 7–14 days in lead times to meet required in-store dates.
We appreciate your understanding and continued partnership as we navigate these global supply chain challenges together. Should you require any further information or shipment-specific clarification, please do not hesitate to contact our team.