Exporters using Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) are facing difficulties securing empty containers, creating challenges for cargo movement and shipment planning.
The shortage is affecting exporters who depend on timely availability of empty boxes to stuff cargo before moving containers to the port for loading. Delays in obtaining equipment can disrupt factory schedules, increase storage and transport costs and potentially affect vessel cut-offs.
Industry participants have raised concerns that limited availability of empty containers could put additional pressure on India’s export supply chain, particularly for smaller exporters and cargoes operating on tight shipping schedules.
The situation comes amid changing global container flows, with equipment availability influenced by trade imbalances, vessel schedules and repositioning of empty boxes between major markets.
Exporters are seeking greater coordination among shipping lines, container operators and logistics providers to improve the availability and timely repositioning of empty equipment at JNPA and surrounding logistics hubs.
JNPA is one of India’s major container gateways and handles a significant share of the country’s containerised export and import trade. Continued equipment shortages could add to logistics challenges for exporters if not addressed promptly.