Port pressures easing as schedule reliability rises
Schedule reliability is edging higher across global shipping networks as operational pressures at key European ports begin to subside. While recent weeks have brought welcome improvement in vessel turnaround times and cargo flows, challenges remain that could yet destabilise performance gains.
Europe’s major ports have experienced a noticeable reduction in congestion, with delays falling from peak levels of up to a week to more manageable wait times of one to two days.
Rotterdam, Bremerhaven, and UK ports are seeing fewer bottlenecks, though operational variability between terminals still causes friction in some areas. For now, the backlog of long-dwelling containers is easing, and the most severe disruption appears to be over.
However, this respite may prove short-lived. Planned infrastructure work in Hamburg and ongoing industrial action at a key Rotterdam terminal threaten to reignite localised congestion from July. A temporary rail disconnection in Hamburg will force container flows onto the road network, creating pressure on limited truck slots. These disruptions are unlikely to trigger continent-wide gridlock, but they will require close coordination to minimise schedule impact.
Despite these looming risks, ocean carriers are reporting improved on-time performance. Global schedule reliability reached 38% in May, the highest since early 2024, marking a steady climb since the start of the year. Carriers such as Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd continue to lead the field, achieving reliability scores of 61% and 57% respectively. In contrast, some carriers remain well below average, with the lowest performing line posting just 10%.
The Gemini Cooperation, the alliance formed by Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd, has delivered consistently strong results, maintaining over 80% on-time performance. This reliability is delivering more predictable operations, fewer blank sailings, and the ability to maintain weekly service frequencies. As a result, schedule stability is also driving incremental volume growth.
Still, recent data reveals fluctuations even among top performers. Gemini’s week-by-week performance ranged from 76% to 84% over a four-week period, highlighting how fragile reliability can be in a complex, interconnected system.
With summer disruptions looming and port-side inefficiencies still a factor, close collaboration with carrier partners remains vital. Proactive planning and real-time responsiveness will be key to sustaining the reliability gains now within reach.
At Logicall, we understand that even short-lived disruption can have lasting consequences. That’s why our visibility tools and proactive support teams help you respond quickly to changes at arrival ports and container availability. From managing port diversions to updating delivery schedules on the fly, we make it easy to keep your supply chain moving, whatever the conditions.