Maritime analytics firm Alphaliner reports a strategic shift in container liner operations: carriers are now committing as much as 80% of their vessel capacity to fixed sailing schedules, locking in volumes based on long-term contracts and alliances.
Capacity Anchored in Long-Term Contracts
Rather than maintaining high spot market exposure, carriers are increasingly focusing on long-term contracts and slot-charters. By pre-allocating up to 80% of their available space, they gain stable revenue streams, avoid shifting spot-price volatility, and better plan fleet deployment across key trade routes.
Alliances: Powering Consistency over Flexibility
Major alliances—such as 2M, THE, and Ocean Alliance—have facilitated this trend by structuring shared services into predictable, scheduled strings. Ship operators benefit from improved fill rates and efficiency, while shippers enjoy enhanced schedule reliability.
Implications for the Spot Market and Shippers
This move tightens the supply available on the spot market, reducing carriers’ exposure to rate fluctuations. For shippers, it offers greater reliability, but less flexibility and potentially reduced access to short-notice capacity. Spot rate premiums may increase during peak seasons or unexpected demand surges.
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Source: Alphaliner
