Global shipping delays continue due to congestion and geopolitical tensions

Worker strikes, rerouting and Red Sea conflicts cause global shipment setbacks 

Ongoing delays in the global shipping landscape show little sign of easing, with container ships struggling to maintain schedules throughout most of 2024. According to recent reports by Sea-Intelligence, average vessel delays have reached their highest levels since the COVID-19 pandemic at 5.67 days — half a day longer than in 2023. Schedule reliability is estimated at around 51.4%, its lowest in 2 years — an almost 30% reduction from pre-pandemic levels. 

Delays are due to several factors, including port congestion, worker strikes and geopolitical tensions. Many major ports, particularly in Asia, are still dealing with high volumes of backlogged cargo, causing bottlenecks that ripple across global shipping routes. Due to ongoing security concerns in the Red Sea, the rerouting of vessels around Africa to avoid the Suez Canal has further worsened delays. Additionally, port worker strikes — such as the recent 10-day strike in Canada — have created significant shipment backlogs and resulted in the anchoring of many vessels. 

More information about the expected delays

We understand that the ongoing uncertainties in global shipping may be frustrating, and we sincerely thank you for your patience. While there is optimism for improvements, the reality is that the shipping industry faces ongoing challenges moving into 2025.

Our team is working closely with our partners and officials worldwide to ensure operations return to normal as quickly as possible. If we anticipate any delays with your shipment, we'll notify you via email as soon as possible. In the meantime, we recommend checking your Seven Seas Worldwide online account for updates. 
 
Here are some further resources if you would like more information about the ongoing disruptions: 

• Late Arriving Containership Delays Reach Highest Levels Since Pandemic 
• Canada Port Strikes End; Maersk, Hapag-Lloyd Issue Advisory 
• US port strike ends, leaving cargo backlog