News / Barge operators impose surcharges after rapid fall in Rhine water level

A rapid decline in water levels along the Rhine has resulted in barge operators imposing low-water surcharges (LWSs).

While nowhere near last year’s levels, which fell to 32cm, forcing the Rhine’s closure, MSC announced it would pass on to customers LWSs imposed by its barge operator partners on services to or from Antwerp and Rotterdam after the river dipped below 150cm.

“Navigation’s still possible but with reduced capacity,” the carrier told customers. “As a result, reaching closings in the ports of Antwerp ...