We’re watching a significant moment for global trade. With the recent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, the possibility of ships returning through the Suez Canal is back on the table, and it could have wide-ranging implications for supply chains between Asia, Europe and North America.
Releasing Capacity and Shortening Voyages
Because of the risk in the Red Sea region, many carriers have been taking the long way around Africa via the Cape of Good Hope. That route has added time, cost and complexity to Asia-Europe and Asia-US East Coast services.
According to Sea-Intelligence, if the Suez route is restored, about 2.1 million TEU of container capacity could be released. That’s roughly 6.5% of the active global container fleet size. In practical terms, for us and our partners: shorter transit times, fewer vessels tied up on long detours, and potentially more agility in our service offerings.
A Surge of Cargo into Europe and What That Could Bring
On the flip side, restoring the Suez route could trigger a sudden surge of imports into Europe. Sea-Intelligence modelled a return scenario where arrivals from Asia could double over about two weeks, pushing European port-handling volumes 39% above previous record highs. Even if the transition is phased over eight weeks, volumes may still be around 10% above historic peaks.
For European terminals that already experienced congestion in March 2025 when a wave of delayed vessels arrived after taking the longer Cape of Good Hope route, this raises a red flag. Yard space, labour, inland transport links and port equipment could all come under pressure.
What This Could Mean for Beckchoice Customers
For businesses that import or export through the UK, this development could affect shipping schedules, pricing and planning in several ways:
- Shorter transit times: A reopened Suez route would reduce voyage durations, helping goods reach Europe, and ultimately the UK, faster.
- Potential short-term congestion: If carriers switch routes quickly, European ports could become temporarily backed up. That might mean slower unloading, extended dwell times, or container shortages in the short term.
- Freight rate fluctuations: As capacity is released back into the market, ocean rates may shift. While that could lead to some downward pressure, short-term volatility is likely during the transition.
- Why it matters: For customers moving time-sensitive or high-value cargo, even small changes in transit times or vessel availability can have a knock-on effect on production schedules, retail planning and cash flow.
We are already monitoring these developments with our global network and keeping close contact with carriers to anticipate any shifts. We aim to ensure customers have clear visibility of their options, realistic ETAs, and the flexibility to keep supply chains moving smoothly – whatever happens next.
Final Thought
The timing of a full return to the Suez route isn’t set yet. Security in the Red Sea remains a key factor, and carriers won’t switch until they’re confident. But when they do, it won’t just mean shorter voyages – it will reshape port flows, vessel capacity and logistics planning across Europe.
Beckchoice will continue to keep customers informed, offering clear advice and tailored routing solutions as the situation evolves.
Does your freight forwarder keep you informed? If not, get in touch to see how Beckchoice can support your business with reliable updates, transparent communication and proactive logistics planning.
References
- Sea-Intelligence, “Impact of Red Sea re-opening”, 23 Oct 2025. Sea-Intelligence
- “Suez Canal reopening to unlock 2.1 million TEU capacity”, PortTechnology, 24 Oct 2025. Port Technology International
- “How up to 2.1 million TEU could flood Europe if the Suez route re-opens”, Trans.info, 29 Oct 2025. Trans.INFO
- “When the Suez Canal comes back online: hidden risks for supply chains”, Metro.Global, 28 Oct 2025.metro.global