As the effects of the coronavirus continue to impact shipping and the supply chain reefer plugs are now in short supply.
Because of the effect of the coronavirus outbreak Chinese ports are congested which has resulted in a lack of available plugs for reefer containers, according to a statement issued by shipping line MSC which also provided advice to its customers.
MSC cannot secure the discharge of reefer containers at the designated port if power source may not be available.
Consequently, at ports, where it is not possible to discharge some or all reefer containers MSC has no option but to apply clause 19 of our Bill of Lading and Sea Waybill Terms and Conditions.
How has coronavirus affected ports and shipping?
It means that customer reefer container(s) may be discharged at an intermediate or alternative port and held there until it is possible to forward them to the designated port of discharge.
In case the situation remains unchanged it may be necessary to abandon the voyage and advise you from where the customer container(s) may be collected.
The MSC statement continues, please note that in both cases MSC is entitled to charge to the Merchant additional freight and costs including but not limited to storage, demurrage and plugging.
The delay to customer cargo is beyond MSC’s control and for the avoidance of doubt MSC is not liable for loss or damage caused by the delay.
MSC concluded by apologising for delays and disruption caused and advised its customers it will continue to keep them up to date with further developments.
