Maersk has released a critical operational update as escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz continue to disrupt regional logistics.
To bypass the heavily restricted waterways, Maersk is significantly expanding its landbridge operations across Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Iraq. These multimodal solutions combine sea, road, and feeder services:
- Exports: Moving via Jeddah Port; Iraq cargo via Aqaba Port; UAE cargo via Sohar, Salalah, and Jeddah.
- Imports: Moving inland from Jeddah to Riyadh and Dammam; from Khor Fakkan, Fujairah, and Abu Dhabi across the UAE; and from Salalah across Oman.
Maersk has introduced an Emergency Freight rate for all cargo linked to Gulf ports to cover the soaring costs of rerouting, storage, and alternative transport. The new per container rates are:
- 20 foot dry: USD 1,800
- 40 foot dry: USD 3,000
- Reefer and special cargo: USD 3,800
For cargo already on the water, shippers must select a contingency plan by the extended deadline of March 25, 2026 (accommodating the Eid holidays). The options include:
- Continue voyage with storage: Includes 14 days of covered storage, with extra costs applying afterward.
- Return to origin: The customer covers additional freight and Change of Destination (COD) fees.
- Change destination: Subject to operational feasibility and additional routing costs.
Booking Restrictions:
Maersk has suspended new bookings for reefer, dangerous goods (DG), out of gauge (OOG), and dry cargo across most Gulf ports.
Exceptions are currently made for Jeddah, King Abdullah Port, Salalah, and Sohar. Critical goods like food and medicine are receiving priority.
Additionally, empty containers can no longer be returned to their usual locations and must now be routed directly to either Salalah (Oman) or Jeddah (Saudi Arabia).
Bunker Surcharges:
Global fuel supply disruptions have forced Maersk to implement a global Emergency Bunker Surcharge (EBS) starting March 25, 2026. The EBS will be reviewed every 14 days and ranges from USD 100 to USD 200 for 20 foot containers, USD 200 to USD 400 for 40 foot containers, and up to USD 600 for reefers.