In response to heightened drone and missile attacks by Yemeni Houthis, major vessels are circumventing Africa’s southern tip, extending travel by 10-14 days. Basic Fun, managing Walmart cargo, rushes to redirect shipments post-militant Red Sea incidents.
Suppliers for Ikea, Home Depot, and Amazon grapple with the most significant shipping upheaval since the pandemic, forcing strategic rerouting through the Panama Canal and Pacific Ocean.
As Suez Canal uncertainties persist, Maersk and CMA CGM resume voyages with military escorts. However, the next six weeks may see space shortages, container misplacements, and surging transport prices.
Xeneta’s estimates reveal escalating shipping costs, impacting small shippers and prompting a scramble for space before Lunar New Year factory closures. The industry faces unforeseen challenges, with increased expenses posing a threat to small shippers lacking contractual flexibility.
