First Corona, then congestions at the ports, and a change in the flow of goods – worldwide, obtaining loading space in containers has become difficult. Militzer & Münch has intensified cooperation with customers to meet the challenge by providing pragmatic solutions.
There are about 25 million containers in circulation worldwide, transporting about 90 percent of all merchandise traded. But it is only now, as they are becoming scarce and freight rates are skyrocketing, that containers are gaining the public’s attention.
Unpredictable dynamics – what caused the shortage
Fewer containers were already ordered worldwide in 2019, a consequence of the trade war between the U.S. and China. With Corona the economy went into lockdown, fewer boxes were ordered during this phase as well. Then economy started to pick up again, but not everywhere at the same time, and not in all industries to the same extent. The flow of goods no longer follows the familiar pattern, and containers have been piling up at ports that cannot handle them. In rail traffic on the China-Europe trade lane, congested border crossings are further complicating the situation.
Militzer & Münch offers customers pragmatic solutions
“It is absolutely crucial that we inform our customers early on, in case there are deviations from the original schedule,” says Holger Seehusen, Managing Director of M&M air sea cargo GmbH. “In order to find viable and sustainable solutions, our globally operating teams are cooperating even more closely with our customers to offer pragmatic and, above all, affordable alternatives.”
When logistics come to a standstill, Militzer & Münch informs its customers promptly so there is still enough time to look for alternatives. This includes finding alternative routes, modes of transport, and procuring equipment. Militzer & Münch has also increased its container stock: the Rail Segment has purchased a number of 40-foot containers together with Militzer & Münch China.