New research by Sea-Intelligence reveals that Northern Europe’s largest port hubs are increasingly lagging behind smaller ports in terms of vessel schedule reliability. Analysts point to a troubling signal for the market: port scale no longer guarantees stability and predictability in logistics.
According to the study’s findings, the region’s major ports – such as Rotterdam, Antwerp, and Hamburg – demonstrated a negative deviation from the average European reliability standard. Conversely, Bremerhaven, Dunkirk, and Wilhelmshaven were among the few ports to exhibit positive performance trends.
Experts note that, due to localized congestion, it is precisely these major hubs that create what is termed a “hub penalty,” thereby diminishing overall supply chain reliability. Consequently, shippers and carriers are increasingly turning their attention to alternative, less congested ports across Europe.