Following the crisis in the Middle East, container shipping lines have halted vessel transits through the Strait of Hormuz and rerouted vessels away from the Suez Canal plunging the region's key maritime chokepoints into crisis.
Pickfords is maintaining close contact with its shipping lines and partners in the Pickfords Global Network. Our shipping lines have advised that customers’ cargo, as well as the safety of crew remain the highest priority.
Shipping lines are closely monitoring developments, which are very fluid, and remain in continuous contact with authorities and security partners.
As a result, services calling on ports in the Arabian Gulf may experience delays, rerouting, or schedule adjustments. Pickfords customers with cargo already in transit or planned shipments to or from the region are encouraged stay in contact with their move manager for guidance.
The conflict has created an environment where changes to services are beyond our control. We may need to move the booking to an alternative service, which may incur a higher freight cost and therefore additional fees. Transit times may also be affected. We also expect our shipping lines to implement war risk surcharges, meaning the cost of your move can change from the original quote you received from Pickfords.
Unfortunately, these are events and costs which we cannot control. We remain vigilant to the disruption and remain in close contact with our trusted partners in the Pickfords Global Network and will take all actions necessary to minimise disruption and costs to our customers moving to the region.
Steve Wilkins
International Director