Panama Canal Update: Navigating Recent Changes

Dear valued customer,

In the world of global shipping, recent shifts at the Panama Canal have caught our attention. Here’s a brief rundown:

Current Picture:
New vessel and draft regulations at the Panama Canal haven’t disrupted most shippers yet but a growing line of container ships awaiting transit suggests a situation to watch, especially for fall and winter importers.

Regulation Changes:
The Panama Canal Authority temporarily cut the maximum pre-reserved passage slots from 19 to 14, until August 21st. This means less than 34 ships can cross daily in both directions, down from its peak of 34 to 42 ships. In June, they also reduced the maximum draft for Neo-Panamax vessels from 50 to 44 feet.

Why It Matters:
A drought has lowered Gatun Lake’s water level, affecting the canal’s locks. Waiting times have increased due to fewer daily transits and lighter vessel loads.

Industry Impact:
Major U.S. East and Gulf coast ports haven’t faced significant disruptions in arrivals. The Port of New York and New Jersey credits low vessel capacity utilization.

Expert Insights – Noatum Logistics is well positioned to help with alternative transport solutions to assist with speed to market.

  • West Coast deconsolidation:  Noatum’s Los Angeles logistics center is ready to assist with container transload and truckload solutions to door for containers routed to LA/LB.
  • Mexico rail: Noatum can assist with rail service routings from Port of Lázaro Cárdenas in Mexico into the South and Midwest regions of the U.S. via the Canadian Pacific Kansas City Railroad (CPKC).

If you have any questions, please contact your local Noatum Logistics representative.