Northern Europe is currently experiencing severe winter weather, including heavy snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, which have significantly impacted port and inland operations.
According to advisories from leading carriers such as Maersk and Hapag Lloyd, as well as coverage by the Journal of Commerce (JOC), these adverse conditions are causing significant delays and congestion at key terminals and throughout the region’s supply chain.
Port operations hi hard by snow and ice
Major terminals, particularly in Rotterdam and Hamburg, are experiencing reduced productivity due to persistent snowfalls, icy conditions, and dangerously low temperatures.
Maersk reports that traffic congestion and delays for trucks are widespread, while Eurogate, a terminal operator in Hamburg, faces further disruptions from snow, ice, and strong winds.
Although other German locations have thus far avoided the worst of the weather, forecasts indicate that the situation may deteriorate, prompting operators to prepare for additional disruptions.
Handling operations at container terminals are ongoing, but weather-related delays are affecting all modes of transport. Winter service teams are working relentlessly to maintain smooth operations despite the challenging conditions.
Inland transport networks under pressure
The impact of the winter storm extends beyond the ports, severely affecting inland transport networks.
Trucking operations are facing longer waiting times, especially at Hamburg terminals, with slower processing also reported in Antwerp and Rotterdam.
Rail services are being disrupted due to frozen track switches, resulting in service cancellations, most notably between Rotterdam and Venlo. Delays are also reported on routes between Rotterdam and Duisburg, contributing to longer waiting times for both import and export cargo and increasing yard congestion at several terminals.
The widespread transport disruptions are increasing pressure on supply chains and making it difficult for cargo to move efficiently across Northern Europe.
Carriers and terminals respond to these conditions
In response to these challenges, Maersk is urging its customers to collect import containers as early as possible to help ease terminal congestion and minimize the risk of additional delays. The carrier also advises that containers be thoroughly cleared of snow and ice before delivery to ensure safe and efficient handling.
Terminal operators and winter service teams are actively working to keep operations running, but conditions remain unpredictable. Some operators have indicated that operations may need to pause if weather conditions worsen further, especially as forecasts predict even more severe weather today and on Friday with additional heavy snow and storm activity expected.
Continued disruptions expected
With forecasts indicating further heavy snowfalls and storms over the next two days, the situation in Northern Europe is expected to worsen significantly. Port and terminal operators, as well as carriers, are closely monitoring developments and will continue to issue updates as conditions evolve.
SeaNews continues to review and provide updates on the situation at individual ports, offering specific insight into the situation at each affected location in its dedicated "Port operational updates from around the world".
