ROTTERDAM —
Container throughput at major European and Asian ports reached a record level last month, straining logistics networks and pushing spot freight rates to their highest point in two years.
The surge reflects front-loading by retailers ahead of the peak shipping season, compounded by rerouting away from constrained routes.
The numbers
Tracking data shows dwell times at three of the region's largest terminals rose above the five-day threshold that signals congestion. Carriers added blank sailings to protect schedules, tightening capacity further.
Who is feeling it
Importers of electronics, apparel, and machinery report the longest lead times since the pandemic era. Freight forwarders warn of additional surcharges in the next rate cycle.
"The system has no slack," a port authority spokesman said. "One storm, one labor action, and weeks of schedule are lost."
Outlook
Analysts expect volumes to stay elevated into the fourth quarter. Diversion of cargo to smaller ports has offered only partial relief, and inland rail congestion remains the binding constraint.
