Congestion at the Port of NY/NJ

We're receiving information from our partners that the recent surge in imports into the US, specifically into the Port of NY/NJ, combined with storms that have been passing through the region is resulting in severe container congestion at the port.

Hapag-Lloyd stated recently "ongoing terminal congestion in the New York and New Jersey area is impacting carriers, terminals, depots, truckers, and customers industry-wide."

Marine terminals are packed with empty containers and truckers are struggling to get appointments to return additional empties. This is resulting in the need for additional chassis in some cases and could also see late fees being charged for storing empties beyond typical free-time allowances.

The surge in imports is likely a result of US companies pulling forward orders to beat both the Chinese New Year and, unique to January 2025, the threat of the ILA strike that was fortunately averted. New tariff communications are keeping those same companies pulling orders forward as much as possible, maintaining the high amount of traffic into the US, and specifically into the port of NY/NJ.

Some carriers are making efforts to aid in reducing the volume of empty containers - Hapag Lloyd is sending a number of empty sweeper ships to NY/NJ as part of a plan to remove up to 10,000 empty containers over the next few weeks.

Alba's team is maintaining close contact with clients affected by the congestion, but if you have a specific shipment you're concerned about, then please use Alba's NEO platform or contact your local Alba office to have your questions answered.