Ocean Network Express (ONE) warned its customers about the impacts that the reduction of the water level in the Rhine River is having, complicating river freight transport through Central Europe. The company recommended considering alternative transit routes to avoid congestion at depots and maintain the flow of the logistics chain.
In this regard, the shipping line reported “on the serious water shortage situation in Central Europe, where water levels in Kaub have dropped to 24 centimeters and in the Ruhr region to 150 centimeters. This critical water shortage severely affects our river network, impacting intermodal transport and terminal operations in Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland and Austria.”
“Consequently, numerous barge operators have suspended their services, causing an imminent operational standstill on major corridors of the Middle Rhine and the Ruhr with serious repercussions for the transport of dangerous goods,” said the Singapore-based company.
ONE explained that “due to restrictions on maritime navigation, usual delivery times and cargo guarantees on affected barge routes are suspended, and all barge shipments remain subject to the low water surcharge (LWS).”
“While alternative rail and road transport networks are currently being used at maximum capacity, ONE’s transport planning teams continuously monitor equipment and terminal flows to mitigate significant delays.
Please note that any additional charges for demurrage or storage at inland ports and terminals arising from these water level conditions will be borne by the customer once the usual grace period has elapsed,” the company stated.
“We strongly recommend that customers immediately consult with their local representative to discuss alternative routes and manage urgent shipments. To avoid congestion at inland depots and maintain continuity of the regional supply chain, customers are requested to return empty containers directly to the seaports of Rotterdam and Antwerp whenever possible,” the shipping line emphasized.
