Typhoon Disruption Update

A succession of typhoons along China’s east coast has caused significant disruption at two of the country’s major container gateways, Shanghai and Ningbo-Zhoushan, with delays continuing to affect ocean freight schedules.

The disruption began in mid-July, when Typhoon Bavi forced major closures around Shanghai from 11 to 13 July. This created substantial backlogs, with ports and carriers still working to recover when further severe weather arrived in August.

Typhoon Bavi forced major closures around Shanghai

In early August, Super Typhoon Dolphin brought fresh operational suspensions across eastern coastal hubs, with vessels moved to safe anchorages and terminals temporarily closing or restricting activity.

The situation was compounded again in late August by Typhoon Saudel, which prompted further shutdowns and terminal suspensions across Ningbo-Zhoushan and the Shanghai port complex.

Key impacts include:

• Shanghai’s Yangshan terminals have seen vessel waiting times increase to between five and 11 days.

• Waiting times at Ningbo have averaged around four to five days.

• Pre-typhoon vessel movements and recurring terminal closures can add around three to 10 days to ocean freight schedules.

• Backlogs created by repeated closures may continue to affect schedules for several weeks.

• Departure and arrival dates may change at short notice while shipping lines work to restore normal rotations.

  
  

For businesses moving goods through the region, the impact can continue well beyond the port closures themselves. Temporary shutdowns, vessel diversions and accumulated cargo all take time to clear, which means congestion can remain even once terminals have returned to normal operations.

If you’ve got shipments moving through Shanghai, Ningbo-Zhoushan or other affected ports, it’s worth reviewing upcoming schedules and allowing additional time where possible.

Speak to your local Advantage Worldwide account manager for the latest information on your shipments and support with planning around current delays.

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