As the trucking industry in the United States continues to face challenges due to a capacity shortages, Maersk Line North America has advised customers that inland tariffs will rise effective March 14. Details about the amount of the increase, however, have not yet been announced.
“Trucking challenges are impacting our ability to deliver cargo on time for store door services,” stated the container shipping giant in a letter sent to clients on February 13. “Delays due to adverse weather are also increasing pressure on an already-stretched market, resulting in a longer recovery time.”
The Florham Park, New Jersey-based unit of Copenhagen, Denmark-headquartered Maersk outlined some of the key factors responsible for the current market situation as follows:
- A healthy US economy has contributed to a nationwide shortage of drivers
- A December 18, 2017 US Federal mandate for implementation of ELD (Electronic Log Data) has impacted driver productivity
- Congestion at terminal and rail ramps has further limited maximum productivity during drivers’ work hours
- Increased street dwell has reduced chassis availability
- Space constraints have led to US rail ramps limiting free time allowances
- An overall increased risk for demurrage, storage, and detention due to capacity shortages
“Despite the above challenges, Maersk Line remains committed to delivering as your single partner from end to end,” assured the letter to customers. “Our commitment is to act as a true partner in defining the new normal within the current trucking landscape and to remain agile as it evolves.”
