Disruption across the UK’s principal container gateways has intensified in recent weeks, with Felixstowe, London Gateway and Southampton experiencing a combination of vessel delays, terminal congestion and restrictions on container movements.
The problems, which have developed over the past two to three weeks, are creating uncertainty for importers and exporters managing shipping schedules and inland deliveries.
Felixstowe
Vessel waiting times have increased significantly since late October, with equipment failures, adverse weather and reduced availability of vehicle booking slots contributing to operational difficulties. Hauliers have faced challenges arranging container collections, adding further pressure to onward transport schedules.
Current estimates suggest vessel waiting times of 4–5 days, with broader port congestion delays reaching up to 7 days.
London Gateway
Terminal operations have come under strain as container yard occupancy has reached 90% during peak periods. Disrupted vessel arrivals, berth restrictions and crane maintenance have affected handling capacity, while a freight train derailment near Barking has interrupted rail freight movements serving the port.
Restrictions on export deliveries and empty-container returns have been introduced to manage yard capacity, including a suspension of empty-container acceptance from 11 November.
Vessel waiting times are estimated at 2–3 days, with overall port congestion delays of up to 5 days.
Southampton
High container volumes and extended dwell times have contributed to congestion, with yard occupancy exceeding normal capacity during late October. Shortages of tugs and pilots have also affected vessel berthing arrangements, while imbalances between empty and export containers continue to complicate terminal operations.
Vessel waiting times are estimated at 2–3 days, with broader port congestion delays of up to 3 days.
Could Suez Routings Be Adding Further Pressure?
The gradual return of Asia–Europe services through the Suez Canal could present another challenge. With approximately two-thirds of container capacity reportedly scheduled to use the route, shorter transit times may result in arrivals overlapping with vessels still travelling around the Cape of Good Hope.
Although any direct contribution to current congestion remains unconfirmed, further vessel bunching could increase pressure on UK terminals over the coming weeks.
GFS continues to monitor developments across the UK’s major ports and their impact on shipping and delivery schedules. Customers with concerns about upcoming shipments should contact the GFS team for advice and assistance.