Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd are rerouting four additional liner services of the Gemini Cooperation via the Red Sea and Suez Canal. The affected services are AE5, AE11, AE12, and ME2. They complement AE15 and AE19, which are already transiting via Suez.
For shippers, the shorter route generally delivers faster transit times and lower fuel consumption compared to circumnavigating the Cape of Good Hope. AE5 connects Asia with Northern Europe, AE11 and AE12 serve the Mediterranean, and ME2 links India with Europe. The first westbound reroutes were scheduled for September 19 and 21 respectively. The first deployment for AE12 was to be announced at a later date.
The risk is not entirely eliminated. Both shipping lines emphasize that utilizing Suez depends on a stable security situation and the absence of further escalations. In the event of a short-term return to the Cape route, transit times will increase. Connecting bookings, container availability, and arrival windows may shift accordingly.
Freight forwarders should not merely quote nominal transit times. What matters is the specific vessel, voyage, and current schedule. For time-sensitive cargo, buffers and contingency plans for missed feeder, rail, or truck connections should be factored into calculations. Insurance conditions for transits through the Red Sea should also be reviewed.