Hapag-Lloyd has announced contingency measures for cargo linked to several Middle East countries as security concerns in the Upper Gulf continue to affect vessel movements and port operations.
In a customer advisory, the German carrier said the evolving situation in the region has prompted precautionary operational steps aimed at protecting crew, vessels and cargo.
The measures apply to shipments already in transit to or from the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Iraq, Oman and Yemen.
The announcement follows the earlier suspension of shipments to and from the affected region.
READ: Major carriers suspend Hormuz transits amid Gulf tensions
According to the advisory, several operational adjustments may occur while the situation remains uncertain. These include schedule disruptions such as changes to port calls and transit times.
Vessels may remain in safe waters until it is possible to proceed safely, while cargo movements could face delays until normal operations resume.
Ships may also deviate to contingency ports depending on operational and security considerations.
Any operational adjustments will be carried out in accordance with the carrier’s Bill of Lading or Sea Waybill provisions, including clauses covering matters affecting performance.
READ: Evergreen suspends bookings for Middle East ports
Hapag-Lloyd also provided guidance for customers with export cargo already booked. Shipments for which empty containers have not yet been collected will be cancelled.
Containers that have already been gated in at terminals for loading should be collected again by customers, as loading operations have been suspended.
The company warned that containers remaining at terminals or requiring additional handling may incur storage, rerouting or other operational charges.
For containers already in transit or located at destinations other than the original discharge port, the carrier said alternative arrangements may be offered depending on operational circumstances.
The advisory comes as shipping lines continue to adjust operations in response to heightened security risks across the Middle East, particularly around the Gulf region and key maritime routes.
For more information:
Hapag-Lloyd – https://www.hapag-lloyd.com/en/home.html
