WSC: Report Finds Sharp Rise in Container Losses in 2024

Container falls and drifts at sea (Photo: AtlasNetwork/Phaata)

The World Shipping Council’s (WSC) annual Container Losses Report found a significant increase in container losses in 2024, with 576 containers reported as lost overboard – more than double the record low of 221 lost in 2023.

A major factor behind the increase was the widespread diversion of vessels around the Cape of Good Hope, as shipping lines sought to avoid security risks posed by Houthi attacks in the Red Sea. WSC reported a 191% jump in container ship visits through the area. According to the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA), around 200 containers were lost in this region alone – more than a third of the global total.

The change in route has exposed ships, many of which do not normally sail around the Cape of Good Hope, to severe winter storms from June to August. Notable incidents include the CMA CGM Belem, which lost around 99 containers, the CMA CGM Benjamin Franklin, which lost 44 containers, and the MSC Antonia, which lost 46 containers.

“Despite continued loss-prevention efforts by the industry, the re-routing of transits away from the Red Sea and around the Cape of Good Hope to keep global commerce moving has ocean carriers navigating one of the world's most challenging routes, as highlighted in this report,” said Joe Kramek, President and CEO of the WSC.

By mid-2025, when the southern hemisphere once again enters winter, the report notes that similar levels of container losses have not been recorded off the Cape of Good Hope.

Despite the increase, container losses remain extremely rare, accounting for just 0.0002% of the approximately 250 million containers shipped globally in 2024.

“This year's report confirms that the vast majority of containers are transported safely across the oceans. Still, even one container lost is one too many,” added Kramek.

Looking ahead, mandatory reporting of container losses to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) will begin in 2026, following the adoption of amendments to the SOLAS convention – a move that has long been supported and welcomed by stakeholders.

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Source: Phaata.com (According to Ships And Ports)

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