The entire supply chain was affected and disrupted in the 2^nd half of 2020.

It first started at origin in the spring/early summer in 2020, it later spread to Europe, this subsequently led to re-routing, or cancelling port calls

 

 and sailings, escalating the duration of the round trips.

The condition consequently was exacerbated by extra health checks and prerequisites introduced at ports throughout the globe in effort to fight Covid-19.

Furthermore, the whole pattern of trade was interrupted. Fewer consignments were moved, it was taking longer to clear cargo and resume empties for reuse, proceeding to countless containers being incorrectly placed.

Moreover, a considerable change in consumer expenditure meant there was an intensified demand at an already peak season.

The new unfamiliar pattern of consumer spending, the outcome of opening and closing the economy, the predictable escalation in demand for Christmas, importers over-stocking pre-Brexit, all had momentous influences.

UK ports were unprepared for this unexpected extra spike, combined with the aspect that it had become challenging to get in touch with customers or they were incapable of taking delivery of goods, because their storage facilities were either closed, or fully occupied.

Unfortunately UK ports have a somewhat set capacity hence they cannot increase short-term demand straightforwardly.

All these components lead to the foundation of a “perfect storm” state of affairs.