(15 November 2022 – Global) While there was a lack of containers at the height of the COVID pandemic, the global economy is now facing up to the opposite problem of too many containers in circulation.
Traders and shippers say the decline in global consumer demand is not a sign the global economy is normalising after a wild post lockdown consumption rush but a descending shift in consumption appetites. Blank or cancelled sailings are also increasing in what is unusual at this time of the year as the major spending period approaches.
“There is just not enough depot space to accommodate all the containers” said Container xChange Chief Executive, Christian Roeloffs.
“With the further release of container inventory into the market, for example from the disposal of leasing fleets, there will be added pressure on depots in the coming months” he added