Northern Europe’s major container ports are under heavy strain as peak-season cargo from Asia collides with already stretched terminal capacity.
Persistent congestion has gripped the region for months, with delayed vessel arrivals disrupting schedules and container yards operating at full capacity.
Traffic on the Asia–Europe trade lane has grown by double digits this year, and the seasonal surge in imports is intensifying the pressure. As a result, service disruptions are likely to persist well into autumn.
While many ports have been impacted by congestion, the most severe bottlenecks are being reported at London Gateway, Antwerp, Hamburg, and Rotterdam. Antwerp and Hamburg are grappling with additional challenges as low river levels restrict barge operations.
Hamburg’s difficulties were compounded this week when a major port fire forced the closure of key access roads, creating further disruption to cargo flows.
Carriers are actively adapting their strategies to relieve pressure, including shifting port calls and diverting volumes to alternative hubs such as Le Havre, Zeebrugge, Bremerhaven, and Wilhelmshaven.
While these diversions offer partial relief, overall congestion across Europe’s container network remains severe.
Global Freight Services continues to monitor the situation closely. With prolonged disruption expected to affect ocean freight services for the foreseeable future, we encourage customers to reach out for guidance and support.