Europe’s Ports Strained by Shifts in Global Trade

Europe’s busiest shipping ports are under serious strain as new US trade tariffs disrupt global shipping routes. The result is severe congestion that is placing pressure on the entire supply chain. Barges are now waiting as long as 77 hours, and ocean vessels are running several days behind schedule. Port operators are struggling to manage an overwhelming volume of cargo, especially in Rotterdam, Antwerp and Hamburg.

This is the worst situation since the 2020 pandemic lockdowns. The current crisis is due to tariffs introduced by the US, which have redirected goods from Asia toward European destinations. At the same time, shallow water levels in the Rhine caused by an unusually dry spring have further limited the movement of goods between ports and locations inland.

Delays are now routine. At Antwerp, inland barges are delayed by nearly three full days. In Rotterdam, some barges are waiting more than three days just to load. These ports, already operating near full capacity, are now facing additional pressure as shipping alliances shift and previously coordinated routes are being restructured. Port terminal operators are trying to respond by hiring additional staff and upgrading equipment, but the congestion continues to increase.

The full impact is still unclear, but logistics experts warn that production lines could soon be affected as shipments carrying vital components arrive late. Businesses that previously depended on just-in-time delivery must now deal with an unpredictable flow of goods. European ports are taking in more cargo that was originally headed for the US, which is placing added stress on port infrastructure.

Long-term relief will take time. Experts in the industry say that expanding terminal capacity and increasing staffing levels may take years before they fully address the congestion. In the short term, there are few solutions available. Most port operators are focused on keeping basic services running while doing what they can to keep the situation under control.

Source: Australian Financial Review, Port Technology, Eurostat - Maritime transport of goods