We have received reports of many ‘Cold Weather’ issues being reported throughout Russia & Europe the past couple of weeks. The majority of the shipping problems are ice blockages.
We normally see winter ‘ice’ problems in the ‘Russian’ areas (St. Petersburg, Odessa, etc.) and northern Europe areas (Estonia, Latvia, Finland, etc.) and have ‘ice breaker’ ships working that area constantly. This year however, they cannot stay ahead of the rapidly freezing channels & coastal waterways so delays are now even longer than normal.
This year even Germany Rivers with heavy ‘ice’ are causing problems, and effecting traffic to/from Hamburg. Similar problems exist in Romania/ Black Sea as well.
Even places as far south as the canals of Venice are blocked or partially blocked by ice. Most say this is the worst winter in Europe in 30 years. Regret that we may have issues with anything to or from this area via surface freight that has to move or deliver very quickly over the next several weeks. This will also throw what is normally very consistent sailing/ arrival schedules to/from the USA ports off schedule as well.
Cargo is still moving but just slower than normal. If you have any ‘hot’ moves for this area, please be advised of the severe winter situation in this part of the world and in some cases, air freight may need to be considered.
Source: Roger A. Stuart, Held & Associates, Inc.
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