We are learning that there have been growing issues with the rail situation in Vancouver’s inner harbour.  Some ocean carriers are claiming that the situation has become worse and has “deteriorated substantially since August”.   Despite efforts by the carriers, there is likely to be very little improvement in the short term.  The dwell time (the period of time in the port terminal between when a container has been off-loaded from the ocean vessel and awaits loading onto a rail car) delays at Vanterm will continue, and could reach levels of 10-14 days! Because the terminal is becoming so congested, they are delaying vessels from berthing, which is increasing delays.  In the long term, and with the upcoming changes in the carrier alliance structures, we may find that the carriers begin diverting vessels destined to Vanterm, to other Vancouver terminals.

We will keep you advised of this ongoing problem.