Import:

1. There are several challenges at the Fergusson container terminal West:

• Gantry Crane Issue: There is a mechanical problem with a gantry crane at the Fergusson container terminal West. This issue is causing delays in working with container vessels due to reduced capacity. Gantry cranes are critical for loading and unloading containers from vessels, so any mechanical issue can disrupt operations.
• Labor Resourcing Issues: In addition to the mechanical problem, labor resourcing issues are compounding the challenges. It’s likely that there may not be enough skilled personnel available to handle the container operations efficiently, further contributing to delays.
• Disruptions from Vessels Arriving Late: Vessels arriving outside their allocated windows are causing disruptions. This suggests that there may be scheduling and coordination issues with vessel arrivals and the terminal’s operational capacity.
• Challenges with VBS Bookings: Obtaining VBS (Vehicle Booking System) bookings in a reasonable time to pick up import containers around the day of discharge is proving to be challenging. This indicates that there may be bottlenecks or inefficiencies in the booking process, which can affect the smooth flow of container pickups.

These challenges collectively impact the efficiency of container handling operations at the Fergusson container terminal West and can lead to delays in the movement of goods. Addressing these issues may require a coordinated effort between the terminal management, labor force, shipping companies, and relevant authorities to ensure smoother operations and improved scheduling and booking processes.

 

2. These are the highlights a challenge in the container logistics industry related to overall container depot capacity. Specifically:

• Unresolved Issue: There is an ongoing issue with container depot capacity that has not been fully addressed or resolved.
• Restricted Dehire Slots: Several large container depot sites in Auckland are experiencing restricted availability of dehire slots. Dehire slots are the time slots allocated for returning containers after they have been used for transport. Restricted availability means that there are limitations on when containers can be returned, which can lead to delays in the logistics and transportation process.
• Delays: These restricted dehire slots are causing delays in container operations and logistics. Delays can have a significant impact on supply chain efficiency, as timely movement of containers is crucial for businesses and trade.

Addressing this issue may involve discussions and coordination between stakeholders in the container logistics industry, including shipping companies, trucking companies, container depots, and port authorities, to find solutions that can alleviate capacity constraints and reduce delays in container handling and transportation.

 

3. Effective from the 1st of October 2023, New Zealand Customs is implementing an interim increase in processing fees. However, it’s important to note that these increased fees are not necessarily permanent, as they will be subject to review again in 2024.

The decision to review the fees in 2024 suggests that New Zealand Customs may be assessing the impact of these fee changes and considering whether further adjustments are necessary based on various factors, such as operational costs, economic conditions, and government policies.

 

4. The pump diesel prices are increasing, and as a result, the local trucking industry is implementing a Fuel Adjustment Factor (FAF) of 26.4% for the month of October.

The FAF is typically used in the transportation industry to account for fluctuations in fuel prices. When fuel prices rise, the FAF may be increased to cover the additional fuel costs incurred by trucking companies. This helps ensure that transportation services remain viable and sustainable even as fuel prices fluctuate.

In this case, a 26.4% FAF for October suggests that the local trucking companies are passing on a significant portion of the increased fuel costs to their customers during that specific month. It’s important for businesses and shippers to be aware of such adjustments, as they can impact transportation costs and logistics planning. If you are involved in the transportation or shipping industry, you may want to stay updated on FAF changes and fuel price trends to effectively manage your operations and budgets.

 

5. The upcoming changes to the Container Checks Portal (CCP) in New Zealand, scheduled for early 2024. Here’s a summary of the key points:

• Reason for Change: The changes to the CCP are part of a broader initiative to overhaul internal border systems. The goal is to upgrade technology and create a more stable platform for the future, likely to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of container inspection processes.
• Use of RealMe: The most significant change is the requirement for users to use RealMe to access the CCP. RealMe is a secure login system used for accessing government online services in New Zealand. This change aligns the CCP with other Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) systems available to external stakeholders.
• Preparing for the Change: Users are encouraged to set up a RealMe login in advance of the CCP’s update. If you already have a RealMe login, it should work seamlessly once the CCP is updated.
• Changes to System Interface: There will be some changes to the look and feel of the CCP system. Users can expect updates to the user interface, but the basic functionality will remain the same. Users will still be able to enter inspection details for sea and air containers and manage the Transitional Facilities they work with.
• Direct Container Check Submission: There are plans to provide an option for larger Transitional Facilities to submit container checks directly from their in-house container record systems. This could streamline the inspection process for such facilities.
• Contact Information: If users have questions or need more information about these changes, they are encouraged to contact info@mpi.govt.nz. Additionally, further information will be provided in the coming months to keep users informed about the updates.
• Overall, these changes aim to modernize the Container Checks Portal and enhance its security and usability, ensuring that it aligns with current technology standards and government systems in New Zealand. Users should prepare for these changes and stay updated with the provided contact information for any inquiries.

 

Export: 

Ongoing challenge in the ports of Lyttleton and Tauranga in New Zealand:

• Move Count Restrictions: There are move count restrictions in place at these ports. Move count restrictions typically refer to limitations on the number of containers moves or operations that can be performed within a specific time frame.
• Impact on Port Operations: These move count restrictions are causing several disruptions in port operations, including late changes to port rotations and, in some cases, port omissions. Port rotations refer to the sequence and schedule of vessel arrivals and departures at a port.
• Operational Consequences: Late changes to port rotations can have a cascading effect on the timing and planning of container shipments. Port omissions may result in some vessels bypassing these ports altogether, which can affect cargo handling, logistics, and the overall flow of goods.

It’s important to note that move count restrictions are often implemented for various reasons, such as managing congestion, maintaining safety, or addressing operational limitations. However, these restrictions can create challenges for shipping companies, port authorities, and those involved in the supply chain.

Stakeholders in the affected ports, including shipping companies, cargo owners, and logistics providers, may need to adapt to these restrictions and plan their operations accordingly to minimize disruptions. Additionally, discussions and coordination among relevant parties may be necessary to address the underlying causes of these restrictions and explore potential solutions.