The idle containership fleet has its highest level since May 2010 according to consultants Alphaliner, Seatrade Asia Online reports. The idle containership fleet surged to 210 vessels with 526,000 teu of capacity as of 5 December Alphaliner said it its weekly report. The idle fleet is forecast to grow to 600,000 teu by year end. However, the outlook for lines remains tough even with more vessels being idled.
“Despite, the high level of capacity withdrawals, carriers are still facing an uphill task in their attempt to raise freight rates before the end of the year. Vessel utilisation rates remaining stubbornly below 90% on most main tradelanes, with year end volumes coming in much weaker than originally expected,” the report said.
“Despite, the high level of capacity withdrawals, carriers are still facing an uphill task in their attempt to raise freight rates before the end of the year. Vessel utilisation rates remaining stubbornly below 90% on most main tradelanes, with year end volumes coming in much weaker than originally expected,” the report said.