Hapag-Lloyd has warned customers of ongoing operational challenges at the Panama Canal, as reduced water levels continue to affect vessel transits.
The carrier said the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has introduced restrictions aimed at conserving freshwater and maintaining safe operations.
The measures include lower daily transit capacity, additional draft restrictions and tighter limits on vessel passages.
Transit slots become harder to secure
According to Hapag-Lloyd, reduced canal capacity is making it more difficult for shipping lines to secure transit slots.
Draft restrictions are also limiting the amount of cargo some vessels can carry through the waterway.
The carrier said bottlenecks are causing delays across several trade lanes. At the same time, priority auctions, additional costs and alternative routings are increasing operational expenses.
Schedule flexibility has also been affected as carriers have fewer options to adjust voyages or reroute vessels.
Hapag-Lloyd considers alternative routings
Hapag-Lloyd said it is maintaining close communication with the ACP and local partners to secure suitable transit opportunities.
The carrier is also assessing recovery measures, alternative routings and network adjustments to limit delays and maintain cargo flows.
The latest warning comes as the effects of the El Niño weather pattern place additional pressure on water availability in Panama.
Hapag-Lloyd said it will continue to monitor conditions and provide operational updates as the situation develops.
