Ningbo Port resumes operations after recent incident

by Editor

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Hamburg, 13 August 2024,09:00 AM CET – Container xChange, an online container trading and leasing marketplace, is updating the global container trading and leasing community regarding the recent explosion aboard the Yang Ming vessel YM Mobility at Ningbo Port, China.

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On August 9, 2024, a container loaded with hazardous materials exploded aboard the YM Mobility while it was berthed at Ningbo Beilun’s Phase III Terminal.

Update on Operations:

As of 00:00 on August 12, 2024, Ningbo Beilun’s Phase III Terminal has resumed loading and unloading operations following a 60-hour closure due to the explosion. The terminal has begun gradually resuming normal operations.

Christian Roeloffs, cofounder and CEO of Container xChange emphasized the critical need for preparedness in the face of such disruptions.

“For container trading companies and those involved in container leasing, this incident presents some straightforward challenges worth accounting for.

The disruption at the Ningbo Port, combined with pre-existing congestion at major Asian ports, will lead to a deterioration of ocean schedules and further delays in container availability in the coming weeks.

Companies must prepare for increased dwell times and a tightening of available container supplies, especially for hazardous and dangerous goods.” shared Roeloffs.

Recommended Actions:

Rerouting Shipping Routes: Companies are exploring and evaluating alternative shipping routes through less congested ports to avoid delays. The closure of Ningbo will likely increase congestion at neighboring ports, so proactive planning is crucial.
Increase Safety Protocols: Rigorous inspections and adherence to safety protocols, particularly for hazardous goods, must be prioritized to prevent similar incidents.
Stay Informed: Regular updates from shipping partners and port authorities will be crucial in adjusting operations in real-time. Companies should maintain open lines of communication to adjust operations in real-time.
Plan for Extended Dwell Times: With delays expected to increase, companies should anticipate longer dwell times at major ports and adjust their inventory and delivery schedules accordingly. Companies should plan for extended delays and consider increasing inventory levels to avoid disruptions.