Freight Pulse & Law Update: Port Congestion Locks Up 1.7M TEU as Cargo-Securing Inspections Start September 1

Why is global port congestion tightening capacity?

About 1.7 million TEU of container capacity is currently sequestered by port congestion. Shanghai remains a critical pressure point after twin typhoons disrupted terminal operations, with some vessels facing backlogs of up to 10 days. Freightos and The Loadstar report continued capacity strain, while trans-Pacific spot rates have risen approximately 9% to the U.S. West Coast and 3% to the East Coast. Asia–Europe rates are cooling by comparison.

Shippers should act on three facts:

• Shanghai delays can roll bookings and disrupt Christmas-season inventory.

• Higher trans-Pacific rates may persist while vessel queues clear.

• Rebooking early is safer than relying on last-minute capacity.

What does the cargo-securing inspection campaign require?

The Paris MoU and Tokyo MoU will conduct a joint Concentrated Inspection Campaign from September 1 through November 30. Port State Control officers will review cargo securing during routine ship inspections, focusing on SOLAS compliance.

Prepare:

• An approved, current Cargo Securing Manual

• Verified Gross Mass records matching cargo plans

• Lashing gear inspections, maintenance, and discard records

• Crew training and documented securing procedures

• Safe access and heavy-weather cargo-monitoring plans

Serious deficiencies can lead to detention. Review the Paris and Tokyo MoU campaign guidance.

What changed for LNG carriers?

As of August 15, IMO reporting now incorporates real-time methane-slip monitoring into EEXI/CII energy-efficiency ratings for LNG carriers. DNV guidance emphasizes verified measurement, continuous data capture, and stronger emissions documentation.

DOT and CVSA safety activity reinforces the same principle on land: verify equipment, records, and procedures before inspections. Review CVSA Brake Safety Week preparation.

How should supply chain teams respond?

Use third party logistics providers that connect compliance with execution. Lanta Logistics provides 3PL fulfillment services from its Glen Burnie warehouse, including a food-grade warehouse, Hazmat certified 3PL operations, inventory management for ecommerce, and Mid-Atlantic fulfillment.

FlowOps by Lanta combines a warehouse management system with logistics software and real-time visibility for supply chain management companies and growing brands. Contact Lanta Logistics to rebook peak inventory early and protect service levels.