The German shipping company Hapag-Lloyd said on Friday that it will offer its customers an alternative land route through Saudi Arabia to avoid the risk of attacks by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea.
The company said that it will use trucks to transport containers from Jeddah port in Saudi Arabia to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, where they can be loaded onto ships for onward destinations.
The land route will be available for both import and export shipments, and will add about seven days to the transit time, the company said.
Hapag-Lloyd is one of the many shipping companies that have been affected by the escalating security situation in the Red Sea, where Houthi rebels have targeted dozens of commercial vessels since November 2023.
The attacks have disrupted global trade and caused delays and higher costs for shippers and consumers.
The US and UK have launched airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, but the rebels have vowed to continue their attacks until Israel stops its action in Gaza.
The Red Sea is a vital waterway for global trade, connecting Europe, Asia and Africa. About 12% of global trade passes through the Red Sea, including 30% of global container traffic.
At John S. James Co., we understand the challenges and risks that our customers face in the current environment. As a U.S. Customs Broker and Freight Forwarder, we have the expertise and experience to handle your shipments with care and efficiency.
We can help you find the best solutions for your cargo needs, whether it is by sea, air or land. We can also assist you with customs clearance, documentation, insurance and other services.
We are committed to providing you with reliable, flexible and cost-effective logistics solutions. Contact us today to find out how we can help you with your Red Sea shipments or any other trade-related inquiries.
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