Hapag-Lloyd adjusts MSW service as Panama Canal water levels fall

Hapag-Lloyd vessel

Hapag-Lloyd is temporarily changing vessel deployment on its MSW service due to lower water levels at the Panama Canal.

The carrier said the conditions could disrupt Canal crossings and affect schedule reliability.

As a result, four vessels will be gradually replaced while Hapag-Lloyd works to maintain weekly service frequency.

Four vessels to be replaced

The temporary deployment plan affects the following MSW vessels:

  • Izmit Express
  • Mersin Express
  • Gemlik Express
  • Cape Corfu

Hapag-Lloyd did not identify the replacement vessels or provide a timetable for each change.

The carrier said the plan is designed to reduce the impact of potential Panama Canal disruptions.

Cargo schedules could be affected

Despite the vessel changes, Hapag-Lloyd plans to maintain the MSW service on a weekly frequency.

However, individual cargo schedules could be affected during the temporary deployment period.

Hapag-Lloyd said customers whose shipments are impacted will receive information from its customer service teams.

The carrier has not specified how long the temporary vessel deployment plan will remain in place.