Hapag-Lloyd Triggers Emergency Contingency Plan in the Gulf: Demands Cargo Retrieval and Prepares for 'End of Voyage' Declarations

In light of the increasingly complex security situation in the Upper Gulf region, which is directly impacting vessel and seaport operations, carrier Hapag-Lloyd has officially rolled out emergency contingency procedures for its customers.

These measures apply immediately to all shipments currently en route to or from the following countries: the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Iraq (including the Port of Umm Qasr), Oman, and Yemen. This move follows the previously issued decision to suspend all new bookings to and from this region.

Direct Impact on Vessel Schedules

Under the contingency plan, depending on actual security and operational conditions, Hapag-Lloyd vessels may:

●  Anchor in safe waters.

●  Alter projected schedules.

●  Divert to alternative ports.

The inevitable consequence is that cargo may face prolonged delays until normal operations can be safely resumed.

Cargo Handling Guidelines for Shippers

Hapag-Lloyd has issued specific handling guidelines based on the current status of the shipment:

1. For booked but not loaded cargo:

● Empty containers not picked up: Export bookings where empty containers have not been picked up will be canceled.

● Gated-in cargo: For shipments already grounded at the port/terminal, customers are compelled to retrieve their cargo themselves, as vessel loading operations have been suspended.

2. For cargo en route:

● Change of Destination (COD): Customers can request to divert the shipment to another port, subject to operational feasibility and readjusted freight rates.

● Return of cargo: Customers may arrange to return the cargo to the original port of loading (POL) and must bear all incurred costs.

● End of Voyage Declaration: In the event the carrier receives no instructions from the customer and cannot arrange an alternative solution, the carrier may declare the voyage terminated ("End of Voyage") and store the cargo at a safe location.

Notes on Surcharges and Legal Basis

Hapag-Lloyd emphasized that all shipments remain subject to the previously announced War Risk Surcharge (WRS).

Simultaneously, additional operational surcharges at contingency ports may also be applied, including:

● Demurrage

● Detention

● Storage fees

● Terminal Handling Charges / Handling fees

The company stated that these drastic measures are implemented based on the terms and conditions stipulated in the Bill of Lading, which are invoked when safely continuing the voyage becomes impossible.

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Source: Phaata.com (According to Container-News)

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