World’s logistics scenario during COVID-19

Due to the Coronavirus expansion, many ports, airports and customs duties worldwide have been affected by the lockdowns in several countries. In order to keep you posted about the world’s logistics scenario during COVID-19, we have compiled the below information about the situation in the ports, airports and Customs Duties.

*Please note that the information comes from the data members have provided us with. If you notice that there is something wrong or that there is information that needs to be updated, please send us an email at mserrano@conquerornetwork.com.

You can also find useful information about the worldwide COVID-19 Global Port Restrictions Situation that Wilhelmsen has created here.

LAST UPDATE: 24th April 2020

 COUNTRY  WHEN  LOCKDOWN
DATES
 PORTS  AIRPORTS  CUSTOMS CLEARANCE
 ARGENTINA NOW
  • Originally from March 20th till March 31st. Extended till April 26th.
  • Ports are operating normally.
  • Import and Export cargoes are being delivered and loaded as usual.
  • Shipping lines are working with limited staff and they have reduced operation hours which could cause some delays for cargoes release. In Argentina original BL are mandatory.
  • Only aircraft flights are authorized to operate, passenger flights are not allowed.
  • Lufthansa, Qatar, Lan Airlines, Avianca, Qatar, Atlas and Martinair are operating regular aircrafts to Buenos Aires.
  • Our customs is working with limited staff so the focus is on essential items (pharma, foods and perishable).
  • The other products are being released but could suffer delays in customs procedures.
EXPECTED
  • Government could extend the lockdown but it´s not official yet. On the other hand, it´s expected other industries will be authorized to restart operations.
  • Some Shipping lines are starting to release cargoes online.
  • Aerolineas Argentinas is also coordinating sanitary flights with cargoes.
  • Regular flights will not operate during this month.
  • After April 26 customs should increase the available staff to avoid more delays.

 AUSTRALIA
NOW
  • No lockdowns
  • All Australian ports are operating for import/export, LCL/FCL.
  • Airports are still open for import/export cargo
  • Customs offices are working normally
EXPECTED
  • No changes
  • No changes
  • No changes
  • No changes
 BANGLADESH NOW
  • Started from 26th March, extended till 25th April.
  • Chattogram & Mongla ports are working partially, as a result of huge congestion of vessels waiting berthing.
  • In Dhaka & Chattogram, the commercial flights operations have been suspended till 30th April.
  • Freighters are operated on demand basis.
  • They are working partially.
EXPECTED
  • The government considers further extension
  • Port operation may come to halt due to space constraints to store containers.
  • The lockdown can be extended further.
  • This situation may continue till lockdown is eased.
 BELGIUM NOW
  • Until 19/04
  • Fully operational
  • Fully operational – less capacity due to no passenger flights
  •  Fully operational (electronic)
EXPECTED
  • An extension is foreseen until 03/05 or 11/05
  • It will remain fully operational
  • It will remain fully operational, however, limited due to less capacity.
  • It will remain the same (paperless).
 BRAZIL NOW
  • Brazil does not have a lockdown declared by the Federal Government itself.
  • The provinces/states are delivering each order for the lockdown. Till now, the lockdown is declared until April, 22nd.
  • Santa Catarina state decreed Emergency situation up to May 30th.
  • Several Airlines’ services were canceled – which caused a huge backlog of cargo waiting to be exported.
  • Prices of services have increased a lot, space is decreasing on a daily basis. To receive imports, airport facilities are working properly.
  • PAX flights have severely been reduced and some Airlines cancelled 100% of its calls in April.
  • Several Airlines’ services were canceled – which caused a huge backlog of cargoes waiting to be exported.
  • Prices of services have increased a lot, space is decreasing on a daily basis. To receive imports, airport facilities are working properly.
  • Working properly without big changes. Some small delays can happen but the release of cargo is still happening normally.
  • Additionally, there have been some small changes when dealing with customers, in order to avoid physical contact, but this is not affecting the customer service.
EXPECTED
  • Brazil has not reached the peak of contamination yet. If it so happens, most probably this lockdown will be extended until middle of May, or maybe until the end of the month.
  • Probably this situation may continue until the end of April. Airlines are trying to figure out how to manage this situation without being more affected.
  • Some airlines estimates they will be able to come back operating PAX flights on May but it will be followed in the coming weeks
  • Medical, pharma and PPE products used to avoid the spread of Covid are top priority on customs releases.
 CAMBODIA NOW
  • No lockdown currently. Most companies (50%) are working from home.
  • Fully operational, but a little bit slower
  • Fully operational, but a little bit slower
  • The scenario is similar with 50% of the staff working from home
EXPECTED
  • No changes
  • No changes
  • No changes
  • No changes
 CAMEROON NOW
  • From 18th March, until new open  order.
  • Only freighter aircrafts are allowed.
  • Customs agents  are focusing on clearance of all commodities.
EXPECTED
 CHILE NOW
  • National lockdowns and local sanitary measures are set.
  • The ports are working normally
  • Container depots are working with less staff than usual, so the process is slower.
  • Shipping companies are working from home and documentation is processed online.
  • Customers have successfully removed their loads.
  • The international flights do not have a fixed itinerary anymore, so they need to be checked regularly.
  • Customs Clearance is working normally
  • Warehouses are working with limited schedule.
EXPECTED
  • Every week, the government establishes the regulation according to the pandemic situation
 COLOMBIA NOW
  • From 14th to 27th April
  • Buenaventura, Cartagena, Santa Marta, Barranquilla, are working normally, taking all the safety precautions for human resource working on all the process.
  • Bogota International Airport is only operating local flights for cargo shipments.
  • All passenger flights are cancelled.
  • Customs systems are working normally, since the main processes are done under government platform and all involved companies are able to work virtually.
EXPECTED
  • The lockdown could be extended depending on the evolution of the curve of infected, recovery of sick patients and deaths, as well as the increased capacity for immediate attention in clinics, with special equipments.
  • The lockdown could be extended depending on the evolution of curve of infected, recovery of sick patients and deaths.
  • The lockdown could be extended depending on the evolution of the curve of infected, recovery of sick patients and deaths.
  • The lockdown could be extended depending on the evolution of the curve of infected, recovery of sick patients and deaths.
 EGYPT NOW
  •  Lockdown until April 26.
  •  All ports are working normally
  • Only 4 airlines are active with limited destination for cargo freighters. Passenger freighters are completely shut down.
  •  Active with limited time and employee capacity
EXPECTED
  • No vision to extend or decline
  • No possibility of lockdown
  • No changes
  • Till now it is till end of April with no vision to extend or decline.
 FRANCE NOW
  • From 17th March to 13th April
  • Extended from 13th Apr to 11th May
  •  French ports are working
  • Only freighter aircrafts are allowed.
  • Due to limited staff, all the customs offices are focussing on the clearance of essential items (pharma and perishable).
  • They can still declare other products but delays are to be expected.
EXPECTED
  • For the moment, no more information after 11th May
  • Rates given shipment per shipment only
  • ***WARNING : INFORMATION RECEIVED FROM AIRLINES => RATES  ARE SUBJECT TO THE EVOLUTION OF THE CAPACITY AND PRICING CONDITIONS TO ACCESS CAPACITY***
 GERMANY NOW
  • From 20/03/2020 to 19/04/2020
  • Today it has been extended until 3rd of May.
  • Everyone from abroad who comes to Germany has to be under quarantine for 14 days before they are allowed to enter the country.
  • Most ports are working normally without any restriction, but few delays may happen due to less manpower
  • All German airports have been operating regularly throughout this period.
  • The only restriction is that some airlines don’t accept road feeder services from Frankfurt/Main to other national airports.
  • It’s very difficult to get space from China to Germany and the rates may increase. Furthermore it’s very difficult to get space from Germany to the US and to Oceania. Therefore these rates may also increased.
  • Almost normal, due to the digital process. Most of the officers are working from home and it’s even faster than before.
  • Only customs clearance of some medical equipment is sometimes difficult and takes additional time, especially for face masks, medical gloves etc.
EXPECTED
  • Partial lockdown: safety distance between persons 1.5m; not more than 2 persons in one group inside and outside; all shops, bars, restaurants are closed. Only supermarkets, pharmacies and hospitals are opened. Limited entrance in stores, pharmacies and supermarkets.
  • On 15/04 the government  announced the first steps in undoing the coronavirus lockdown up to 4th May
  • Lack of empty containers, a few blank sailings. No other restrictions to be expected.
  • There are no restrictions to be expected and hopefully after the 4th of May the situation from China and to the US and Oceania will relax.
  • Import clearance seems to be working a bit faster, physical inspection of cargo by customs authorities is down to a minimum
 GREECE NOW
  • For the general public, the present end-of-lockdown date is 27/04.
  • Most offices operate with emergency staff and services are working remotely from home.
  • Operating normally, but operations take more time, due to the Covid protection measurements.
  • Flight suspensions until 15th May for the countries from/to; Italy, Spain, Turkey, UK, Netherlands and Germany.
  • Only freighter aircrafts and Turkish Airlines are allowed due to lack of cargo and just limited freighters are coming in.
  • Operating normally, with some delays due to limited staff and Eastern (working in shifts):
  • Thessaloniki customs : Import from 08.00 till 13.00 & exports from 08.00 till 15.00.
  • Piraeus customs: Imports from 08.00 till 15.30 & exports from 08.00 till 15.30.
EXPECTED
  • Given that the cases aren’t tremendously high, there is no further information regarding extension. In fact, there is a preliminary government plan for a gradual restart as of 3rd May / 10th May
  • Vessel congestion & delays in vessels arrivals, berthings and departure.
  • No changes
  • No changes
 GUATEMALA NOW
  • From March 17th to April 19th.
  • Curfew from 16:00 hrs to 04:00 A.M.
  • Applied to civilians, not to transport of import and export cargo.
  • However, there is a big traffic restriction within Guatemala city, limited from 04:00 am to 9:00 am and from 14:00 to 16:00 pm
  • Operating normally with enhanced safety precautions
  • Passenger flights are suspended.
  • Cargo flights operating normally with enhance safety precautions.
  • Customs Clearance at ports continues operating normally with enhanced safety precautions.
  • Customs at airport and fiscal warehouse at Guatemala city are working with a special schedule.
EXPECTED
  • On sunday 19th, new actions will be annouced.
  • No expected changes
  • No expected changes
  • No expected changes
 INDIA NOW
  • From 24/03 to 14/04
  • Extended until 3rd May
  • Most of Indian ports are working.
  • Vessels arriving from infected areas are being subjected to 14 days quarantine.
  • Except for those activities that can be made online, there is a lack of manpower.
  • Only freighter aircrafts are allowed and, due to lack of cargo, just limited freighters are coming in.
  • Emirates will start operating its passenger flights as freighters.
  • Qatar has announced an enhanced passenger freighter schedule but the amount of cargo available is still uncertain.
  • Turkish Airlines has the maximum number of freighters in India.
  • Due to the limited staff, all the customs offices are focusing only on clearance of essential items (pharma and perishable); very few officials are reporting for duty; only the containers with factory stuffing permission or those containing emergency items are allowed to be cleared; and, even if the clearances are done, there is no transportation available.
  • The local administration is not permitting the staff to reach the ports, airports, CFSs or ICDs to carry out the clearance.
  • Export LCL consoles are deferred to later vessels
EXPECTED
  • Possible extension
  • The ports are expected to work with the government officials and the local police administrations to ensure that staff engaged in supply chain activities are given special permits and can report to duty.
  • The transportation embargo needs to be lifted, in order to be able to  get the freighters announced by the various airlines, since the air cargo complexes will not have the space to receive the cargo.
  • Airlines are also cancelling freighters because they do not have enough outbound cargo from India.
  • In order to improve this situation, the transportation embargo needs to be lifted
 IRELAND NOW
  • Working and travel restrictions in place until the 5th of May for all non-essential services
  • Transportation is classed as an essential service and remains fully operational
  • For further information, see list of essential services/businesses allowed to operate
  • All Major Ports and Ferry/Container Freight services continue to operate for cargo
  • Associated domestic Road Freight & Drayage services continue to operate as normal
  • Passenger flights have been significantly reduced affecting cargo capacity
  • Cargo flights continue to operate
  • Cargo into or out of Ireland can be routed via other European Airports by truck
  • Associated Road Freight services, including Express pickup & delivery, continue to operate as normal
  • Customs Clearance processes operating as normal
  • “Critical pharmaceutical products and medicines will be given a Customs ‘green routing’ to facilitate uninterrupted importation and supply” according to Department of Revenue (Irish Customs Authority) on 08/04/2020
EXPECTED
  • By the 5th of May it is expected Irish Government will announce either continuation or easing of current restrictions, along with an indication of what to expect in the near future
  • At present we expect Sea Ports, Sea Freight services and associated Drayage/Road Freight services to continue to operate as normal
  • We hope to have an update regarding cargo capacity after the 5th of May
  • If Travel restrictions are lifted or eased, flights may increase along with cargo capacity.
  • We expect associated Road Freight services, including Express pickup & delivery, to continue to operate as normal
  • At present we expect Customs Clearance processes to continue as normal
 ITALY NOW
  • March 9th, until May 3rd.
  • All Italian ports are operative. No specific handling is required due to Covid-19. After some strikes incurred, situation got to normality. Main problems come from vessels’ delays.
  • Only freighter aircrafts are allowed and, due to lack of cargo, just limited freighters are operating.
  • Rates are still high, and spaces limited.
  • Customs is operating as usual. The possible delays are caused by lack of workers, even if the average timing for arranging clearance is on standard.
EXPECTED
  • The government may open some activities before May 3rd.
  • The ports are expected to get more workers back to improve the operations. Government is supposed to provide a list of accepted and mandatory procedures to be followed during the workflow.
  • In order to get cargo and improve the situation, some airlines are partially operating by using their passenger flights as freighters. This reduces the waiting and makes tariffs slightly less expensive.
  • In order to improve this situation, some workers may get back to work. Possible delays may be caused by lack of trucking services which are missing due to lack of imports.
 KENYA NOW  No lockdown.
  • Mombasa port is working normally from 8.00 am to 3:00 pm
  • JKIA working hours are: 8.00 am to 3:00pm. Hours have been reduced due to the curfew at night from 7:00pm to 5:00 am.
  • Inbound passenger flights have been cancelled due to huge drop in cargo volume.
  • Export: Due to the absence of passenger flights and the drop in demand for flowers, very few carriers are landing at JKIA, and as a result, freight rates have skyrocketed.
  • Therefore, because of high rates, the volume of inbound cargo has been reduced tremendously.
  • Working normally but with time limitation from 8.00 am to 3:00 pm
EXPECTED Not expected.
 MALAYSIA NOW
  • From 14th April to 28th April.
  • Most of Malaysian ports are working.
  • Vessels arriving from infected areas are being subjected to 14 days quarantine.
  • Except for those activities that can be made online, there is a lack of manpower
  • Only freighter aircrafts are allowed and, due to lack of cargo, just limited freighters are coming in.
  • All passenger flights both inbound and outbound are not allowed.
  • Our customs offices work as normal from 8.30am until 8.30pm and are focusing  and priority for essential cargo. Those importers and exporters for non-essential must have approval from MITI.
EXPECTED
  • The government will consider for extension if the cases still increase by end of CMO.
  • The ports are expected to work with the government officials and the local police administrations to ensure that staff engaged in supply chain activities are given special permits and can report to duty.
  • The transportation embargo needs to be lifted, in order to be able to get the freighters announced by the various airlines, since the air cargo complexes will not have the space to receive the cargo.
  • Airlines are also cancelling freighters because they do not have enough outbound cargo from PEN & KUL.
  • In order to improve this situation, the transportation and the manufacture  sector requested to obtain approval from Government.
 MAURITIUS NOW
  • From 20th March till 15th April. It has been extended till 04th May.
  •  Mauritius’ ports are working. Suspected vessels are kept 14 days in quarantine, but most of the manpower is working from home.
  • Mauritian boundaries are closed due to lock down. There is no flight due to lockdown.
  • Work permit has been approved by the government for essential services. Due to shortage of staff , customs clearance is focusing on essential items.
EXPECTED
  • The government has extended the lockdown because the number of cases has increased. The government does not rule out a possible extension.
  • The government has issued work permit for essential services so that employees can report to duty. Sanitary precaution is being taken.There is assistance of police officers.
  • Possible extension is not ruled out by the government
  • Situation will be same until lockdown is over.
 MEXICO NOW
  • Government has declared a “contingency” period. All essential activities – such as logistics and transportation – must keep working on regular basis.
  • Many companies are working from home, while operations at ports & airports are operating with their respective protection recommendations.
  • Some non-essential industries have not stopped any activities, some of them have only reduced their operations by 50%.
  • Fully operational
  • Fully operational
  • Fully operational
EXPECTED
  • No changes,  keep working as usual.
  • No changes
  • No changes
  • No changes
 OMAN NOW
  • From 15/03/2020 – complete lock down of capital (Muscat Area) partial lockdown in other parts of the governorates.
  • Only essential services will be allowed to function viz hospitals, pharmacy, foodstuff, cargo and logistics.
  • No lockdown – all sea ports are working normally with reduced work force – hence there are delays in cargo movements.
  • All Airports shut on 23/03/2020 for passenger flights including for domestic flights.  However cargo aircrafts are still operating.
  •  Normal  – with reduced work force
EXPECTED
  • Expected to continue until the end of April or may go up to 1st week of May.
  • As per the Ministry of Transport, sea ports will not be included in the lock down and therefore no hindrance is expected in cargo movements.
  • Current arrangements  will be maintained unless situation demands.
  • No lockdown
 PANAMA

NOW
  • Total quarantine indefinitely since March 24th, 2020.
  • The government has placed limited movement on several business sectors. The shipping industry is still able to operate as imports are needed for food and medical supplies.
 

  • Panama Maritime Authority has raised the level of protection of the ports from NP1 to NP2, but they are working normally.
  • Shipping companies are working in their home office, but their departures and arrivals remain problem-free.

 

  • Export:
    • Passenger flights are not allowed.
    • Only cargo flights such as DHL, UPS, AVIANCA, FEDEX, KLM are still in operation, but their schedules have been adjusted.
  • Import:
    • Only freighter aircraft are allowed, the operation and warehouse in the airport have reduced hours from 8:00 am to 15:00.
    • Arrangements must be made in advance
  • All the customs offices are working with few officers in reduced hours of 8:00 am to 15:00.
EXPECTED
  • The government will take the necessary measures depending on how things develop
  • There will be s reduction in demand and consequently, there will be adjustments to sailings on some of their services.
  • Some shipping companies will be implementing digital “Release”.
  • Some airlines could be closing their operation if they don’t have enough inbound and outbound cargo.
  • Passenger flights will be opening again on April 22nd until further notice
  • Customs will be implementing new payment services.
  • All special permits and approvals of entities will be processed by email.
 POLAND
NOW
  • Originally from March 13th till further notice. 
  • Some branches of businesses and some factories are closed. Some are working with limited staff (for example customs and port authorities) or are working online (like the shipping lines, forwarders). 
  • Ports are operating normally.
  • Import and Export cargoes are being delivered and loaded as usual.
  • Shipping lines are working with limited staff and they have reduced operation hours which could cause some delays for cargoes release.
  • Only cargo flights are authorized to operate but in very limited volume.
  • Passenger flights are not allowed.
  • Majority of cargo is going by road from hub airports in Germany.
  • Our customs is working with limited staff.
  • Delays may occur in customs procedures.
EXPECTED
  • Government will lift the lockdown but it’s not told when exactly – it will depend on the pandemic situation
  • It’s expected that business will be authorized to restart operations in 4 steps. We’re now at the 1st step. Some factories are starting work now.
  • In the next step, hotels and cultural institutions will start operating to be followed by catering shopping malls and other services.
  • Shipping lines prefer to release cargoes online.
  • Regular flights not operating yet as borders are closed till at least 3rd of May 2020.
  • Limited staff will be kept until further notice.
 PORTUGAL NOW
  • From March 24th until April 17th.
  • This week, it is expected to be extended until 3rd May.
  • Open for cargo only with some restrictions and some possible delays, but they are working normally.
  • Only opened for cargo with restrictions:
    • PAX very limited
    • Most cargo arrives and departs by truck.
    • Only freighter planes are operating.
    • Very difficult to find space for cargo.
    • Import unloading procedures for trucks can take up to 4 days.
  • Working normally with some restrictions, due to 50% of personnel working remotely.
  • Due to this limited staff, some delays can be expected.
  • Essential items have priority.
  • The local administration is not permitting the staff to reach the ports or airports.
  • Red channel inspections need special permits.
EXPECTED
  • The government does not rule out a possible extension, however they are in the process of studying reduction on the restrictive measures.
  • The government does not rule out a possible extension, however they in the process of studying reduction on the restrictive measures.
  • The government does not rule out a possible extension, however they in the process of studying reduction on the restrictive measures.
  • The government does not rule out a possible extension, however they in the process of studying reduction on the restrictive measures.
 RUSSIA NOW
  • March 16th, until April 30th
  • Service mostly by freighter aircrafts or road feeder service to European hubs. PRG airport handles only a few flights per day
  • There is a lack of customs officers due to current situation, so we have experienced some delays in customs process
EXPECTED
  • Government will ease lockdown gradually till June
  • Depends rather on the situation in the rest of the world
  • We expect situation will be back to normal within few weeks
 SAUDI ARABIA NOW
  • March 16th 2020 untill further information.
  • All Saudi Arabia sea ports are working.
  • Vessels arriving, berthing, discharging imports & loading exports.
  • Very limited imports & exports due to flights shortage.
  • Very limited imports & exports due to flights shortage.
  • Very limited staff of customs authorities.
  • Saudi customs system is supporting the clearing agents to do the procedures very smoothly either for import or export shipments.
EXPECTED
  • No official circular so far.
  • Expecting to minimize the working hours, and providing special permits for the staffs related to supply chain & stevedores activities.
  • The future situation is unclear, as it depends on assessing the impact of COVID-19 on the general  commercial and economic sector
  • It depends on government decisions.
 SLOVENIA NOW
  • March 20.03, until TBA
  • Rail freight traffic and road traffic (Despite certain limitations in neighbouring countries and on-road border crossings) are running normally.
  • To support the road sector, the Ministry of Infrastructure has suspended the limitation for truck traffic in Slovenia – vehicles with a maximum permissible weight of more than 7,500 kg can operate on Sundays and non-working days from 8 am to 9 pM.
  • The port remains fully operational.
  • The Port of Koper is fully operational despite various safety and protective measures. The border post control and customs authorities are working 24/7 and are ensuring safe traffic of goods.
  • The logistic route through the Port of Koper and through Slovenia is working reliably without disruptions.
  • The Government has banned passenger air traffic in Slovenia until 27th April, 2020.
  • The ban doesn’t apply to cargo traffic, special air transports without passengers and specific government flights.
  • Other possible exceptions will be carried out upon permission of the Ministry of Infrastructure and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
  • The customs authorities are working 24/7 and in compliance with safety measures are ensuring safe traffic of goods.
EXPECTED
  • TBA
 SOUTH
AFRICA
NOW
  • Currently under full lockdown.
  • Only essential Services/Business can open. We are considered an Essential Business, so we can open warehouses, for example.
  • However, the majority of staff are working from home and can function fully.
  • Only Essential Goods such food and medicines can be transported and delivered to consignees.
  • Sea ports are working, although at reduced capacity.
  • Airports are also functioning, but NO passenger flights arriving or leaving, only Freighters.
  • Very limited airfreight capacity into, and out of, South Africa.
  • Only Essential Goods such as food and medicine can be transported and delivered to consignees.
  • All other goods can be Customs cleared but have to be placed in storage, at a cost.
  • The Non-Essential goods cannot be delivered to, or collected from, consignees/shippers.
EXPECTED
  • This lockdown is expected to continue until the end of April.
  • It could be extended but there is no official word on that yet.
  • The above situation is expected to remain in place for the next two weeks.
  • After that, in May, some easing of restrictions is expected, but we will still have some sort of ‘shut down’ measures still in place.
  • The above situation is expected to remain in place for the next two weeks.
  • After that, in May, some easing of restrictions is expected, but we will still have some sort of ‘shut down’ measures still in place.
  • The above situation is expected to remain in place for the next two weeks.
  • After that, in May, some easing of restrictions is expected, but we will still have some sort of ‘shut down’ measures still in place.
 SOUTH KOREA NOW
  • No lockdown. Due to other countries’ lockdown policies, many people are working at home.
  • Fully operational
  • Fully operational
  • Fully operational
EXPECTED
  • No changes
  • No changes
  • No changes
  • No changes
 SPAIN

NOW
  • Lockdown extended until May 9th.
  • Factories are open (essential & non essential).
  • Working from home when possible
  • Customs, ports, airports, road & rail transport are operating normally.
  • Customs, ports, airports, road & rail transport are operating normally.
  • Customs, ports, airports, road & rail transport are operating normally.
EXPECTED
  • The government has announced that this new lockdown extension will come with some ease in restrictions
  • No changes
  • No changes
  • No changes
 SRI LANKA NOW
  • Still the situation is under control. Thanks to the forces and health officials who’re doing their best to eradicate this pandemic from Sri Lanka.
  • To promote public safety, the government has implemented new laws and regulations for the inbound sector.
  • The Colombo port is operating normally.
  • Airports have suspended transporting passengers until further notice. However, they’re operating to bring back citizens of Sri Lankan from other countries under the direct guidance of the President.
  • Imports are really limited.They have given the green light for essential items such as fuel and medicine etc.
EXPECTED
 SWEDEN NOW
  • No lockdowns.
  •  All ports are open, there is deficit of equipment for export, some feeders are cancelled. Operations as usual.
  •  All airports are open, very few direct lines from ARN/ GOT /MMX. Quite many shipments must go down to Franktfurt or Amsterdam
  •  All good, smooth operations as usual
EXPECTED
  • No changes. Authorities  just recommend to work from home if possible.
  • No changes
  • No changes
  • No changes
 SWITZERLAND NOW
  • Until April 26.
  • Most passenger flights are cancelled due to COVID-19.
  • At the moment following airlines are flying to ZRH. QR / EK / SQ / TK / AF / KL / LH / AY / LX to PVG / PEK / EWR / NRT
  • RFS Service: CV / RU / LH / AF / KL and many more
  • Customs has limited staff.
  • Due to electronical submision of the declarations no delays are expected and all kind of goods can be customs cleared.
EXPECTED
  • Most factories are working as normal.
  • Sometimes late replies from our customers due to home office work or limited staff.
  • Delivery and pick up trucks are running normally
  • Normal working hours
 TAIWAN NOW
  • No lockdowns.
  • Normal situation
  • Normal situation
  • Limited route and space , import / export all OK.
EXPECTED
  • No changes
  • No changes
  • No changes
  • No changes
 THAILAND NOW
  • April 03rd to April 30th  or until further notice
  • Curfew: 10.00 PM – 04.00 AM
  • Normal processes at ports for import and export
  • Some borders are open
  • Thailand extends the period of ban on international flights to Thailand till 30th April.
  • Only freighter aircrafts are allowed and, due to lack of cargo, just limited freighters are coming in.
  • For export to Thailand they have limited flights.
  • Flights need to be checked case by case.
  • Working as normal process, but there might be some delays in booking and final BL, since  some carriers are working from home.
  • For export, Thailand Government has the control of priority goods, such as masks, hand sanitizers.
EXPECTED
  • Possible extension
  • No changes
  • No changes
  • It is highly advisable to book in advance
 THE
NETHERLANDS
NOW
  • Partial lockdown continues until  20th May. Schools and kinder gardens will reopen on May 11, for children below 12. High schools, sport clubs for kids below 12 and bewteen 12 and 18 (keeping the  the 1.5m distance) may reopen as well. Bars, restaurants, non-essencial shops remain closed. Festivals and soccer competitions are forbidden till September.
  • Businesses are running normally but workers are requested to home working when possible
  • Operational 24/7
  • Open for just freighters.
  • Operational 24/7, some warehouses are increasing the costs due to Covid-19 to keep the operation going as good as possible.
  • Airlines are not on schedule; all options are on request and subject to change.
  • Operational 24/07. Obviously it takes more time and delays are expected.
EXPECTED
  • A new decision will be made on 20th May
  • No changes
  • No changes reported until now.
  • No changes  are expected until April 28th, 2020.
 TUNISIA NOW
  • 20th March – 4th April. Extended to April 19
  • Suspended
Suspended
  • Suspended
EXPECTED
  • Government could extend the lockdown
 TURKEY NOW
  •  There is no lockdown dates for logistics.
  • Working normally
  • Working normally
  • Working normally
EXPECTED
  • Not expected during April
  • Not expected during April
  • Not expected during April
  • Not expected during April
 UAE NOW
  • Lockdown dates until 18th April on below terms:
    As per UAE government work permit is issued only for listed vital industries till 18th April with working hours from 8.00 am to 14.00 hrs.
  • From 8.00 am to 14.00 hrs
  • From 8.00 am to 14.00 hrs
  • If it can be made online – no issues.
  • If any custom inspection needs to be done, it has to be between 8.00 am to 14.00 hrs.
EXPECTED
  • The lockdown can be extended further
  • The lockdown can be extended further.
  • The lockdown can be extended further.
  • The lockdown can be extended further.
 UK NOW
  • Many companies are closed or have staff working from home. While organisations involved in essential supplies and support, such as freighting, are still working.
  • Most factories are still producing and exporting, while some importers have closed, so space for storage is now in high demand.
  • UK Ports are working normally.
  • Airports are working normally for cargo, but delays can be expected on getting cargo.
  • Most of the brokers are working as normal.
EXPECTED
  • The same scenario will continue for probably another month or more.
  • No changes.
  • More airlines are operating PAX as cargo flights, which should allow more capacity.
  • No changes.
 USA – GENERAL NOW
  • Dates vary by state. Most stay at home orders have been extended to April 30th.
  • All ports are operating normally. there are some slower response times, but overall  there are no real delays, things are moving at airports and seaports along with local trucking and warehouses too. Some ports have adjusted their schedules to accommodate CDC directive on social distancing.
  •  Other than very restricted carrier capacity, airports are not experiencing any delays in receiving or releasing goods. Some local truckers depending on the city have cut back service to and from the airports to only one morning and one evening run to collect and tender freight.
  • No issues
EXPECTED
  • In the worst hit cities the date might be extended to 2nd week of May.
  • In other less affected cities some form of normality will return by end of April for businesses.
  •  No change to current situation on moving containers to and from the ports or rail heads are anticipated.
  • Although no delays in tendering or collecting cargo at present, the truckers who have cut service should start to resume normal services by the end of April.
  • No issues
 USA – FLORIDA NOW
  • Until 30th April. No lockdown presently in Miami, Fl for Logistics / Transportation companies
  • Miami and Port Everglades Open
  • Miami International Airport open
  •  Working normally in Miami
EXPECTED
 USA – LOS
ANGELES
NOW
  • Los Angeles County Stay At Home order started on March 19th and is tentatively effective until May 15th, 2020
  • All Port of Los Angeles and Long Beach terminals are operational and we are conducting business as usual with the exception of few cancelled shifts due to lack of volume
  • Airline Cargo Terminals are heavily congested due to current high demand of Air shipments. Truckers average waiting time is between 2-6 hours to pick up cargo.
  • There are some delays in release of shipments at exam warehouses.
  • Other than the exam delays, customs entry filings and releases are currently at full strength.
EXPECTED
  •  The Governor of California is expected to gradually lift the “Stay At Home” order soon.
  • Ports are expected to be fully operational as it was classified by the government as essential service.
  • Current congestion at Airline Cargo Terminals is expected to continue as importers are using air method to move urgent cargos especially PPE products
  • There are currently no foreseeable issues with customs clearance as most customs brokers are able to file entries remotely if they work from home.
 USA – NEW
YORK
NOW
  • Currently on “work-from-home” mandate.  Dates are uncertain.
  • All major US ports are operating.  Occasional 24 hr  shut-down due to positive virus report for dock-worker.  Reduced traffic.
  • Major airports operating with very limited traffic except for cargo.  Congestion at JFK due to high NY infections and personnel shortages.
  • No interruption.  Essential medical products being provided by expedited processing.
EXPECTED
  • Continued until pandemic abates.
  • Continued operations w/periodic interruption until pandemic is under control.
  • Continuing until pandemic is under control.
  • Continuing until pandemic is under control.

 

Conqueror Cairo delivers a sensitive and high-value shipment

MGL Cargo Services was in charge of all port and custom related formalities, and port handling in Alexandria

MGL Cargo Services, the Conqueror member in Cairo, Egypt has recently moved a highly sensitive and high-value shipment to a special security site in the Desert Road of Alexandria. The most sensitive and valuable piece of cargo which weighed 24,000 Kg was moved in a 1x 40’ roll-trailer. A generator weighing 15,200 kg and a chiller weighing 6,200 kg were loaded onto 2 x 40’ FR, OH and 2 buffer tanks weighing 1,200 kg each were loaded in one 40’ flat rack container.

international logistics service provider
international logistics service provider

The trucks in which the cargo was moved were equipped with GPS and live tracking facilities and throughout the journey, the cargo was closely attended by Special Armed forces. “The entire volume of the shipment was accommodated on 3 low bed + 2 trailers while arrangements were made for special lashing and security belts were provided. Our team was in charge of port handling in Alexandria, truck transport up to the site, all related port and customs formalities and supervision of the process of unloading and installation on the site of delivery.” says Mr. Marc Gharabawi, the Executive Director of MGL Cargo Services.

Congratulations to MGL Cargo Services for the impeccable handling of this sensitive cargo!

Conqueror takes a major step towards the digitization of the freight forwarding sector by creating FreightViewer

Madrid, Spain October 2019: After two years of hard work and substantial private investments, Conqueror with agents in 265 cities and 142 countries is all set to start working with its member-exclusive Transport Management Software, FreightViewer. This software will provide the members of Conqueror the technological capability to compare competitive online freight rates, share shipping documents,and quote instantly in real-time all in one neatly organized platform.

Freight forwarding sector is aware about the need of digitization in the industry. The best example to show this fact, is the great investment of technological companies such as Flexport, Freightos or other pioneer freight forwarding multinationals, e.g. Twill and KN Freightnet, have done during the last few years. But even, after all these investments and efforts, a considerable percentage of freight forwarders continue to miss out on the digitalization race in the freight industry.

Even though it is not an easy task to become digitalize within this industry, highly demanding and inpatient customers, multinationals and globalization, are some of the factors which are forcing an important transformation in logistics sector. Inside this environment, Conqueror has developed FreightViewer, revolutionizing the old ways of working. As a member-exclusive and free Transport Management Software, FreightViewer allows members of the network to automatize the uploading of their contract rates (Air, FCL, LCL and Cargo Insurance) through the online platform and share them with agents or customers instantly. Moreover, FreightViewer on the dashboard allows customers and agents to manage bookings for any carrier online, collaborate and share the shipping documents, and offer real-time status updates for shipments.

As stated by Antonio Torres, the CEO and President of Conqueror, “The new tool is going to help freight forwarders within our network cope with the problem of ever-changing freight rates due to complex tariffs, various time zones and unresponsive overseas agents, which eventually leads to a delay in quoting a door-to-door service.”

FreightViewer will ensure that all members will become truly digital freight forwarders. Mr. Torres further added that “Digitization of the freight forwarding sector is starting but very slowly. For example, only three of the top twenty global freight forwarders can provide an instant quotes online. We feel very proud to be part of the digitization process in our industry. Conqueror is the first international freight forwarding network to launch instant quoting ability for its members. We have come up with FreightViewer after the launch of the operating system by the industry leader Flexport, who has received one billion $ investment, has eleven offices in four countries and is currently receiving all the attention world-wide from media related to the industry as it is growing incredibly. We haven’t a received a billion-dollar investment, but we have developed a state-of-art software and we have a huge worldwide infrastructure formed by our members. This makes us one of the biggest players running in the digital race of the logistics sector. Our main aim is to contribute towards actualizing the process of digitization in this sector and thereby create value for the shippers.”

FreightViewer will definitely alter the way independent freight forwarders conduct their businesses. It will not just reduce the quotation processing time from a number of days to a couple of seconds, but also help to enhance the productivity, client engagement, and profitability of the member companies.

CQR Accra ships a 50 megawatt temporary power plant

The cargo was sent to Burkina Faso in more than 60 air shipments

Sevenlog Limited, Conqueror member in Accra, Ghana, has successfully completed a project which involved the movement of a 50 MW temporary power plant from Ghana to Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. Sevenlog handled the haulage and customs clearance of all the machineries and equipments via the port of Tema, Ghana.

air freight forwarder
air freight forwarder

As stated by Ms Cécile Norgaard, the Operations Manager of Sevenlog, “This global project consisted of nearly 260 containers and not less than 60 air shipments, which included an air consignment of approximately 20 tons. We are quite happy with the result of the project!”


Congratulations to Sevenlog Limited for a job well done!

Conqueror Cairo handles a project cargo consisting of a new production line for one of their partners

The cargo which was loaded from Hamburg, Germany, was shipped all the way to Alexandria, Egypt

MGL Cargo Services, Conqueror member in Cairo, Egypt, has recently handled a project cargo for a new production line from Hamburg to Alexandria. In order to deliver this project cargo, they used x40’ HC DC + 2 x 40’ flat racks out of gauge. They made use of special low bed trucks for transporting the flat racks and used cranes and forklifts to discharge the shipment at the destination.

logistics business partner
logistics business partner

The cargo reached the destination intact and on time, thanks to the expertise and teamwork of MGL Cargo. As stated by Mr. Wassim Magdy of MGL Cargo Services, “We were in charge of each and every aspect of the shipment including documentation, customs clearance, and transportations. The project was not an easy one and we had to make route survey to find the best and safest route from Alexandria to the point of discharge at the 10th of Ramadan Industrial Zone where the cargo was unloaded,” 

Congratulations to MGL Cargo Services for a job well done!

Conqueror Valletta works as the logistics service provider for a waste management initiative by the government

The government, through a local company had issued a tender which was awarded to a local waste management operator. CQR Valletta provided logistical and freight solutions.

Carmelo Caruana Co Ltd, Conqueror member in Valletta, Malta, worked on a waste bins project for a Malta government initiative. This year, Malta embarked on a waste management initiative to be in line with EU standards on organic recyclable waste whereby each household was provided with waste bins. Carmelo Caruana Co Ltd was appointed by the local operator awarded the tender for this waste management project. 

independent freight agent
independent freight agent

Some of the most challenging aspects of this project was loading the containers & trailers respectively from different suppliers for different parts of the bins whilst meeting the organized ship schedules. “We are very proud to be associated with this crucial project which will help our country better manage and recycle organic waste. Carmelo Caruana Co Ltd have completed their task and the majority of bins are already being utilized in households across the Maltese Islands,” says Mr. Dwayne Caruana, the Senior Logistics Manager of Carmelo Caruana Co Ltd. 


Congratulations to Carmelo Caruana and wishing them the very best for their future endeavours!

 

Conqueror Ljubljana, Slovenia, acquires the AEO Certificate

This certificate makes STORI D.O.O. one of the few freight agencies in Slovenia to acquire it on the top level – AEO F

After over six months of hard work, study, dedication, paperwork, and extra working hours from the entire team, STORI D.O.O.- our member in Ljubljana, Slovenia, finally obtained the AEO certificate. What distinguishes them from other AEO certificate holders is the fact that they received the highest level certificate of AEO F (combined AEO C + AEO S) which is sure to secure their position as one of the top freight agencies of Ljubljana.

international logistics service provider
international logistics service provider

On this picture you can see one of the co-owners of STORI D.O.O. & STORI.KOM, Mr. Aleš Koncilja, receiving the certificate from Head of the customs office in Ljubljana, Mr. Zlatko Alibegovic.

”Our customs clearance procedures are faster and less controlled for known importers/exporters which allow us to offer faster handling of shipments and goods. This will improve the trust of our clients and open new ways for potential clients in the future,” says Aleš Koncilja, Head of the Ljubljana branch of STORI D.O.O.

Mr. Koncilja further added, ”I would like to thank my entire team as well as my customers whose hard work and unwavering support has allowed us to prove our worth as one of the best forwarding companies of this country.”

Hearty congratulations to STORI D.O.O. for this momentous accomplishment!

 

Conqueror Esbjerg transports a heavy cargo from Esbjerg, Denmark, to Aarhus, with Panama as the end destination

Jutlandia Terminal A/S was also in charge of lashing and securing the transportation of the cargo

Some weeks back, Jutlandia Terminal A/S, our member in Esbjerg, Denmark, was responsible for the complete process of coordinating the transport, loading, lashing and securing of a heavy cargo. Their logistic department operated for this specific job as a one-point-of-contact, which handled the proper coordination between the various departments. The “one-point-of-contact” service offered by CQR Esbjerg, has allowed them to simplify the process for their customers, who now only have one person to contact regardless of the nature of the services.

“Jutlandia arranged the pick-up of the cargo from their customer’s site in Esbjerg and had it delivered to Jutlandia’s terminal at Europakaj in Esbjerg. Due to the special dimensions of the cargo, it had to be reloaded onto a flat, suitable for transporting this cargo, which did not fit a standard solution,” says Maiken Spangsberg Thygesen, Logistics Coordinator of Jutlandia.

After the loading, Jutlandia’s terminal workers lashed and secured the cargo to the flat and made it ready for sea freight. The cargo was then transported to Aarhus, with Panama as the end destination. Ms. Thygesen further adds, “I would like to thank all my team members for the successful accomplishment of yet another important project.”

Conqueror congratulates Jutlandia Terminal A/S for handling the project successfully!

CQR Bremen moves 5 wind farm flanges from Antwerp to Roermond

Joh. C. Henschen also signed a new control agreement to unload shipments from Cuxhaven port which consists of Eolic parts weighing between 35 and 43 tons each

Joh. C. Henschen, the oldest Freight Forwarder in Germany and Conqueror member in Bremen, shipped five wind farm flanges from Antwerp, Belgium, to the plant in Roermond, Holland. It was a challenging project since the cargo had a diameter of 635 cm with a height of 80 cm.

Additionally, since February, Joh. C. Henschen has obtained a contract to control the unloading of several parts for a wind power generation project from ships at the Cuxhaven Port. All these parts weigh between 35 -43 tons each.

international logistics
international logistics

“Successful handling of this complex shipment has indeed provided the much-needed impetus to our team and we couldn’t have been more excited about the result,” says Thomas P. Henschen, General Manager of Joh. C. Henschen.

In the past months, CQR Bremen was also in charge of shipping a road construction machine with a volume of 649 x 300 x 390 cm from Port of Emden to Veracruz. They also hauled a locomotive for underground mining with a volume of 1051 x 200 x 240 cm and a weight of 54.1 ton from Diepholz, Germany, to Zarate, Argentina. Moreover, they transported a plastic injection molding machine weighing 59.8 tons, from Kottingbrunn, Austria to Dunlap, Tennessee in the US.

Congratulations to Joh. C. Henschen and wishing them the very best for their future projects!

Conqueror Valencia welcomes a new member to their team

Ms. Cristina Soriano has recently joined Aduanas y Transportes Lazaro in the International Business Development Department

logistics companies
logistics companies

Aduanas y Transportes Lazaro, Conqueror member in Valencia, Spain, has been joined by a new member- Ms. Christina Soriano. Ms. Soriano who will be working at the International Business Development Department is going to be the main point of contact between CQR Valencia and its clients worldwide. Some of her work would include answering client’s queries, offering suggestions, organization of sales visits, demonstration of services and much more.

“I am really happy about joining the team of Lazaro Cargo and I hope to competently lead our International Business Development Department and drive many new projects our way,” says Ms. Soriano.

According to Jorge Perez, Manager of Aduanas y Transportes Lazaro Cargo, “Cristina Soriano is an experienced and highly talented personnel and I am sure that her presence will greatly increase our team’s efficiency. We are delighted to welcome her in our team.”

All the best to Aduanas y Transportes Lazaro for their future endeavours!