Market update November

In this November market update, we once again examine a series of developments impacting European logistics. The most significant event this month originates in Belgium: national strikes taking place from November 24th to 26th, which are expected to have a significant impact on freight flows through the Port of Antwerp-Bruges.

Strikes put pressure on logistics chains

According to the port authorities, the impact is still difficult to fully estimate, but one thing is certain: port operations will be disrupted. As spokesperson Lennart Verstappen points out, even one link that stops can lead to delays in the entire process. Over the past year, the port has already faced several work stoppages (including warehouse strikes and previous national strikes), which are gradually increasing the pressure on supply chains.

Broader impact than just the port

The announced actions extend beyond the terminal docks. Also:

• Public transport

• Airports

• Railways

• Police & security services

...may be affected. This could extend to inland transport, documentation agreements, and export and import planning.

What does this mean for the market?

We expect in the week of November 24:

• Delayed handling of containers and breakbulk

• Possible congestion at terminals

• Limited availability of transport capacity due to the impact on rail and inland shipping

• Uncertainty surrounding cut-off times and loading/unloading windows

Anyone with good flows via Belgium should consider longer lead times and possible replanning.

This month's tip: plan ahead and monitor actively

During periods of labor action, the vulnerability of supply chains becomes clear once again. It is therefore important for companies to:

• Plan ahead when shipments fall around these dates

• Explore alternative options for transportation or temporary storage

• Maintain strict communication with chain partners

In practice, we notice that companies that take these steps in a timely manner experience the least delays in such weeks.

How SEA & SHORE supports companies during disruptions

As a logistics service provider, we closely monitor market developments, such as these strikes. This allows us to inform customers early on about risks and to collaborate on solutions such as route optimization, rebookings, or adjusted planning. This way, we keep supply chains as stable as possible in a period that appears increasingly dynamic.

Source: https://www.nt.nl/

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