THE UK HAS NOW LEFT THE EU AND THE CHRISTMAS PERIOD IS OVER HOWEVER, THE UK SHIPPING SITUATION REMAINS SO FAR UNCHANGED. NOW DEALING WITH THE CHANGES BROUGHT ON BY BREXIT AS WELL AS THE ONGOING CORON
The UK has now left the EU and the Christmas period is over however, the UK shipping situation remains so far unchanged.
Now dealing with the changes brought on by Brexit as well as the ongoing coronavirus situation, the cost of shipping to the UK continues to climb at a rapid rate, seemingly almost daily.
As highlighted in a recent story by the BBC, where importers were paying between £1000 and £2000 in November, they are now facing costs of £10,000 per container. Never experienced before, these high costs are the result of an ongoing container shortage, the continuing challenges of coronavirus as well as a reluctance for UK cargo due to the disruption at ports.
With Chinese New Year only a couple of weeks away, the holiday was seen as a potential turning point; allowing for the congestion to be eased and encouragement for shipping liners to transport empty containers to Asia.
Unfortunately, a spike in cases of Covid-19 in China is currently threatening to prolong the issues with the Chinese Government now staggering factory closing dates to prevent a potential outbreak; an outcome which could result in the continuation of production due to travel bans being imposed.
Industry experts are now suggesting it could be the middle of the year before we start to see a return to normality with rising concerns that continued price increases could lead to the closure of many UK businesses who cannot afford to pay them.
We will continue to inform our customers and the industry as the situation develops and would like to reaffirm Metpro’s commitment to stock in 2021. We have invested heavily into ensuring continuity of supply throughout this period and look forward to fulfilling the needs of our customers moving forward.
To understand our approach to the shipping challenges, please contact our sales team who would be happy to help on either 0121 552 2100 or by email at [email protected]. You can also check out our live stock levels at www.metpro.co.uk or contact us using our Live Chat feature.
