News / Carriers adopt 'hardcore' blank sailing strategy as export bookings plunge

© Mr.siwabud Veerapaisarn

As Shanghai enters the fourth week of its zero-tolerance Covid lockdown, forward export bookings are said to be down by 40% or more, prompting carriers to consolidate loads and blank more sailings.

According to one carrier contact, lines may be obliged to implement a “hardcore” blanking strategy to mitigate the impact of the cargo shortfall.

The source said many of the numerous containerships currently at anchor off Shanghai port are “simply waiting for new orders” as fleet managers struggle to agree with ...