As splash247 reported, Sea-Intelligence data has revealed that empty containers account for 41% of global container transport in July, up from 31% recorded in 2019. The trend of increasing empty container movements has been steady over the past five years, with only a slight drop in 2022.

According to The Loadstar, Sea-Intelligence data indicated that imbalanced trade flows are leading to an unequal distribution of empty containers across various markets. As a result, there has been an increase in the movement of empty containers compared to loaded containers. Matthew Burgess, Vice President of LCL USA at Shipco Transport, commented, “North American ports frequently experience a surplus of containers due to imports exceeding exports, in contrast to the shortages often observed in Asia.”

These empty repositioning efforts are not only costly but also contribute to port congestion and increased emissions. According to industry insights published by Container xChange in November 2024, the annual cost of repositioning empty containers was estimated to exceed $20 billion, representing more than 12% of total operating expenses for shipping lines.

Citing the latest data published by Sea-Intelligence, ShippingWatch reported that for every 10 miles a loaded container travels, an empty one must be moved 4.1 miles to rebalance supply, representing an increase of one additional mile since 2019.

Furthermore, as The Loadstar reported, Houthi attacks on merchant vessels in the Red Sea region have also led to a 20% increase in empty container travel distances. ShippingWatch reported that ocean carriers are absorbing higher costs to maintain equipment availability; however, if this trend persists, these expenses are expected to be passed on to customers.

Source: splash247.com, The Loadstar, Container xChange, ShippingWatch, Shipco Transport