European Port Congestion
22 July 2025
European Port Congestion Update
Northern Europe’s key ports; Hamburg, Bremerhaven, Rotterdam, and Antwerp, have seen some short-term improvement in recent weeks. Container dwell times are beginning to ease, vessel backlogs have reduced slightly, and overall port flow is more stable than earlier this year.
However, congestion has not fully cleared, and underlying issues remain: inland rail disruption, low river levels, and labour-related delays continue to affect operations. Antwerp, in particular, remains a pressure point, with some containers still sitting in terminal for over 8 days.
This situation is directly affecting Ocean services to the US, where consolidated cargo shipments are experiencing extended dwell times before departure. LCL containers often rely on tighter schedules and multiple touchpoints, so even small delays at origin can lead to knock-on effects for delivery timelines in the US.
As we enter the summer peak season, the risk of renewed delays is increasing, especially as volumes rise and infrastructure stays strained.
Carrier routing changes and terminal slot availability may lead to last-minute adjustments or longer transits.
LCL shipments to the US may face additional wait times before departure due to delayed container consolidation and terminal congestion.
Vessel delays remain in the 3–4 day range at several ports.
Rail and barge limitations are causing slower cargo movement inland, particularly for freight coming from or through central Europe.
13 June 2025
European Port Congestion Eases, But Long-Term Pressures Remain
European port congestion has shown signs of easing in early June, bringing temporary relief to shippers and logistics providers. However, systemic pressures suggest the situation remains fragile, with the potential for renewed disruption as the summer peak season approaches.
According to Flexport, ports such as Hamburg, Antwerp, and Bremerhaven have begun clearing long-dwelling containers, and vessel delays have temporarily declined. This marks a notable shift from earlier in the year, when widespread congestion across Northern Europe caused ripple effects throughout the supply chain.
The recent improvement can be attributed to several short-term factors, including faster container movement, adjustments in carrier rotations, and slightly improved terminal efficiency. However, underlying issues, including constrained barge capacity, inland rail bottlenecks, and continued labor disruptions, still threaten operational stability.
Carrier alliances have also contributed to shifting dynamics. As networks are reshuffled and some services diverted or consolidated, ports like Rotterdam remain at risk of renewed pressure. Ongoing labor negotiations in Germany and other regions introduce additional uncertainty for port operators and logistics planners.
Shippers are advised to remain vigilant. While European port congestion may be easing now, the industry is heading into the high-volume summer season. As more cargo moves through constrained infrastructure, the potential for delays will increase. Proactive planning, close coordination with logistics providers, and ongoing visibility into inland transport networks will be essential for mitigating risk in the months ahead.