Container lines are cancelling the implemented surcharges for reefer containers that had Chinese ports as destinations, taking into consideration that the congestion caused by COVID-19 eases.
Specifically, according to Hapag-Lloyd, the congestion in Chinese ports has eased, berthing operations have improved and the terminals have resumed to normal working conditions.
The reefer plug availability has also improved so that the company does not have to divert cargoes on a large scale anymore.
In light of these developments, we will cancel the Reefer Adjustment Surcharge (RAS) regarding all reefer cargoes destined for Mainland China ports with immediate effect
Nevertheless, minor unforeseen disruptions can still take place.
In addition, CMA CGM also says that reefer plug utilisation at Shanghai and Ningbo had improved and that reefer containers that were diverted to other ports would be delivered to their final destination.
These surcharges had been imposed because of the extended shutdown of businesses in China due to COVID-19. Due to the virus, reefer containers pilled up at major ports China, while reefer plugs and staff were absent.