This article provides a detailed overview of the concept of 'blank sailing' in shipping, analyzing its causes and impact on corporate logistics, while emphasizing the importance of understanding shipping dynamics. It also highlights how our Flexport team assists clients in adapting to this change, ensuring effective transportation of goods.
The global shipping industry faces significant challenges due to US-China trade friction, with a surge in blank sailings surpassing even pandemic levels. Reports indicate a substantial decline in freight volume on Asia-US routes. Businesses should proactively plan, diversify sourcing, and strengthen collaborations to navigate the evolving trade landscape. The increase in blank sailings indicates reduced demand and capacity management by shipping companies in response to the trade tensions and their impact on cargo volumes.
Blank voyages are canceled sailings by shipping companies, which can impact your logistics arrangements. Understanding the underlying reasons and response strategies will help you effectively manage the supply chain and ensure the smooth transportation of goods.
Container freight rates have significantly declined, particularly on trans-Pacific routes, with a weekly drop reaching double digits. Weak demand has led to the cancellation of numerous voyages, and more blank sailings are expected in the future, posing severe challenges for the shipping market.
CMA CGM has launched a new route, ALGA 2, connecting Spain and Algeria with weekly sailings. This new service optimizes transport efficiency between the main ports of both countries, enhances the quality of logistics services, and supports the development of bilateral trade.
The China-US trade agreement has revitalized demand from China to the US, presenting new challenges to the supply chain. The reduction in empty vessel sailings has tightened capacity, potentially leading to shortages, delays, and price increases. Users will feel the impact during the upcoming peak season.
Incheon Port has improved its services for the sea freight export of hazardous materials, with weekly sailings every Saturday and a journey time of approximately 3 days. For the transport of UN3082 environmentally hazardous liquids, clients must arrange bookings 10 days in advance, providing necessary documentation to ensure smooth customs clearance.
Jiyun Baodian offers LCL export services for 2-Ethyl Aniline to Busan, with two weekly sailings for stable and efficient transport. We simplify the process, provide transparent documentation, and offer MSDS and dangerous goods packaging certificate assistance. We track cargo status throughout the journey, ensure meticulous documentation, and provide efficient customs clearance. Familiar with Shanghai port customs procedures, we guarantee the safe and smooth arrival of your hazardous chemicals.
Since 2025, international trade capacity in the Pacific region has decreased by 11% due to the uncertainty of US tariff policies. Shipping companies are responding by adjusting capacity and canceling sailings, but the fundamental issue lies in the direction of trade policy and changes in demand. The shipping industry faces challenges and needs to closely monitor the market and flexibly adjust strategies. Shippers also need to strengthen risk management.
This article provides a detailed analysis of the Matson Clipper's sailing schedule for weeks 42-44 in late October, covering vessels such as Ka'i, Kaua'i, Lani, Lana'i, Hina, and Maui. It includes departure, navigation, and estimated arrival times. The analysis highlights the efficiency characteristics of both regular and extra (ad hoc) sailings. This information offers practical logistics recommendations for cross-border e-commerce sellers and logistics professionals, helping them optimize their shipping strategies.
