Shipping routes are critical to the global economy, with over 11 billion tons of goods being shipped via ocean cargo annually. It’s an industry that provides the essential goods you enjoy for a happy and fulfilled life. Despite the dependence on shipping logistics, ocean cargo faces some daunting challenges.
Delivering goods to the final destination safely and on time is a significant hurdle for shipping brands. Geopolitical tension and a lack of employees aren’t helping. Identifying the challenges within the shipping industry is vital if you plan to use ocean cargo for your business needs.
Luckily, you’re in the right place to learn more about those challenges and the paths to overcome them. Continue reading to leverage ocean shipping today!
Table of Contents
Lack of Employees
Cargo ships need employees to work on the vessels when traveling between ports. Maritime shipping isn’t a glamorous profession.
There has yet to be an infusion of new workers entering the industry. As more workers retire, shortages of shipping employees have become a consistent problem.
New employees are essential to ensure the industry continues moving forward. The shipping industry must attract new workers to maintain efficient global commerce.
Cargo Loss
The sea is a volatile force. Predicting what will happen when sailing a cargo vessel through a storm is impossible. The force of the ocean can push shipping containers overboard.
Weather conditions are a primary cause of lost goods and shipments. It’s a challenge that impacts the shipping company’s profit margin. Consider using shipyard confined spaces training to ensure successful loading techniques.
Geopolitical Tension
Tension between nations is causing the shipping industry to struggle. Longer shipping times and lost shipments are resulting in frustrated customers. Employee training and compensation are crucial to prepare sailors for the possibilities on the job.
Changes in political parties and tension in shipping lanes are a headache for shipping logistics. The Red Sea and South China Sea are areas with significant tension. Monitor these shipping lanes when shipping ocean cargo.
Finite Quantity
Meeting shipping demands from customers requires more ships and people to work as crew. Hiring and training these sailors and fabricating the cargo vessels takes time. With demand higher than the supply of ships, the shipping industry is bogged down with products and resources to deliver abroad.
Environmental Regulations
Taking steps to preserve the environment is noble. It’s also a headache for shipping logistics.
Enhancing fuel efficiency and managing pollution are two environmental challenges. New technology is helping to bridge the gap. Shipping companies that have yet to invest in new technology struggle to keep up.
Find the Best Way to Ship Your Ocean Cargo
Using the shipping industry to deliver products to international markets is cost-effective. You can trust your shipment will arrive safely. Still, there are several challenges facing ocean cargo.
Rising geopolitical tension is resulting in fewer shipping lanes. Cargo loss and a lack of employees result in less reliability. Shipping companies must also adhere to changing environmental regulations.
When expanding your brand, finding the most effective way to ship your goods is essential. Read our Tech and Business content to find the best tools for sustainability today!
