Global Transshipment & Coronavirus: The Early Effects

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Muhjir Shajahan

The early effects of the coronavirus pandemic sweeping the globe have been surreal, to say the least. Normally flooded tourist cities and attractions look like ghost towns and local governments are scrambling to flatten the curve of the virus’ wrath. The world as we know it has dramatically changed, and it’s uncertain when or if it will return back to normal.

One aspect of normal life taking a huge hit is global commerce, which is skidding to a halt as we speak. Since our company deals in that global shipping, we thought we’d take a look at how the coronavirus pandemic has affected shipping in 2020.

Closing Borders, Idle & Lost Shipments

Countries like China are clamping down hard on shipping, and the ripple effect from the halt is being felt around the world. As much as 80 percent of the world’s goods are carried by sea, and many of those goods are now staying in port. China alone is home to most of the busiest ports in the world, so their shutting down of their ports has massive ramifications for other countries.

Some American ports are expecting anywhere from 15 to 50 percent less traffic in the coming weeks and months, which is decreasing the number of available supplies around the globe.

That sudden dip in shipments is leading to lost jobs, as truck drivers, port workers, and administrators are being laid off due to the decrease in traffic. Perhaps worse, some vessels are floating outside of ports waiting to be cleared to enter, running low on food and morale in the process.

Ripples Felt In Other Industries

In many ways, the backbone of the world economy is shipping, and that sudden slowdown is showing signs of affecting many other areas of life.

Stores are already showing signs of running out of certain products, and as people outside of the shipping industry are going to be affected as a result. Governments are being forced to consider more production within their own countries, and are being wary of shipments from other places.

One thing is certain: the true cost of this pandemic may not be known for several months or even years.

Trust Southwestern Industrial With Your Shipping

While shipping in these times is certainly challenging, there is no challenge that our team can’t handle. If your business needs heavy shipping done anywhere in the world, you can trust our company to help you get there!