HMM has crossed the 1-million-TEU operated capacity mark for the first time in its history, becoming the latest carrier to join the “millionaire’s club.” The milestone reflects a sustained fleet expansion programme that has doubled HMM’s operated capacity over the past five years.
The company’s rapid ascent began in April 2020 when the first of twelve conventionally powered Megamax vessels — including the 24,000-TEU HMM ALGECIRAS — joined the fleet. All twelve ships were delivered before the end of that year.
HMM continued its renewal drive with the addition of eight 16,000-TEU ‘NPX’ class ships in 2021, before pausing its expansion. The programme resumed in 2024 and 2025, with a slate of twelve 13,000+ TEU vessels, six ships in the 7,500–9,000-TEU range, and several smaller units. Notably, the entire newbuilding series has been sourced from Korean shipyards, supporting the domestic shipbuilding sector.
The milestone was reached last week when the Seaspan-managed 10,010-TEU SAVER class SEASPAN BRIGHTNESS joined HMM’s Far East–India–Med ‘FIM’ service. This vessel brought HMM’s operated capacity to 1,007,180 TEU and is one of the few SAVER units the carrier has taken on charter.
Looking ahead, HMM is scheduled to receive five 8,500–9,000-TEU ships from Hyundai Samho and HHIC, along with twelve 13,000-TEU units from Hyundai HI and Hanwha Ocean, with deliveries expected in 2028 and 2029.
Source: Alphaliner
