If you’ve ever been involved in cargo transport to or from East Africa, you may have experienced situations such as:

• “Unable to secure a booking”
• “Cargo not loaded on the intended vessel”
• “Shipping line citing container shortages”

In logistics, these situations are often collectively described as “container shortages.” However, the phrase alone doesn’t capture the full picture. In reality, there are multiple factors at play. Often, it’s not that containers don’t exist, but rather that they cannot be loaded onto vessels as planned. This article explains why such situations occur in East African logistics and what shippers should keep in mind.

Two Types of “Container Shortages”

There are broadly two patterns behind what the industry calls “container shortages”:

1. Equipment Shortage This refers to an actual lack of empty containers available for export. Examples include:
   • Shortage of 40HQ containers
   • Insufficient reefer containers
   • Inability to arrange special containers
   Such shortages can occur in East Africa depending on the shipping line or region.
2. Space Shortage More common in practice, this occurs when:
   • Containers are available
   • Empty containers can be collected
   • Bookings are accepted Yet cargo still cannot be loaded on the desired vessel because ship space is insufficient.

East Africa as an Import-Heavy Region

Countries such as Kenya and Tanzania typically import more than they export—vehicles, machinery, construction materials, consumer goods, and more. Although empty containers may be seen stored at ports or inland depots, their presence doesn’t guarantee they can be used for export when needed. Specific types like 40HQ or reefers may still be in short supply. In other words, “containers exist in East Africa” ≠ “freely available for export use.”

Containers Are Managed Globally

For shipping lines, containers are global assets, not dedicated solely to East Africa. They are deployed worldwide depending on demand:

• Reallocated to China
• Sent to India
• Used on North America routes
• Assigned to Europe-bound cargo

Thus, even if empty containers are physically present in East Africa, they may not be allocated to local exports.

Why Cargo May Not Be Loaded Despite Space

From a shipper’s perspective, it’s puzzling when containers and bookings are confirmed but cargo is rolled over to the next vessel. This happens because vessel planning considers:

• Weight limits
• Load balance
• Dangerous goods placement
• Reefer power slots
• Port-specific handling plans

So even if space appears available, constraints like weight or cargo mix may force adjustments, leading to rollovers.

Why East Africa Is More Vulnerable

This isn’t unique to East Africa, but smaller trade volumes compared to Asia, North America, or Europe make the region more sensitive to global disruptions such as:

• Worldwide port congestion
• Strikes or labour disputes
• Geopolitical risks altering routes
• Schedule disruptions

For example, recent Red Sea instability forced rerouting via the Cape of Good Hope, causing global delays and space shortages that also affected East Africa.

What Shippers Can Do

While shippers cannot change global supply-demand dynamics, they can mitigate risks by:

• Sharing shipment plans early
• Allowing sufficient lead time
• Considering multiple carriers
• Maintaining flexibility in shipment timing
• Coordinating transport plans with forwarders in advance

Especially for East Africa exports, preparation with buffer time is crucial.

Final Thoughts: Smoother East African Logistics

The phrase “container shortage” oversimplifies a complex reality involving:

• Empty container supply
• Vessel space demand
• Shipping line equipment strategies
• Global logistics market shifts

Understanding these dynamics helps explain why bookings fail or rollovers occur. With foresight and flexible planning, risks can be reduced. East African logistics, while distinct from Japan or Western markets, can achieve more stable supply chains through awareness of these global interconnections.

MOL Logistics supports both inbound shipments to East Africa and exports from the region, working closely with local offices.

For consultations on East Africa cargo or logistics challenges, contact: [email protected]

References | Notes

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and may vary depending on local regulations and operational conditions. Please contact MOL or relevant authorities for case-specific guidance.