Shippers will be back on the front foot when the 2023 contract negotiations begin, but a leading maritime consultant is advising BCOs not to \u201cseek revenge\u201d by excluding carriers that have “treated them badly.”<\/p>\n
In its latest executive briefing, Drewry reminds shippers preparing to tender for the coming year that there are now just nine global ocean carriers, and that most medium and larger-sized BCOs will need to work with at least five to support their supply chain.<\/p>\n
The consultant said it would be \u201ctempting for logistics buyers to seek revenge,\u201d but suggested that in shippers\u2019 own interests, \u201crestoring business relationships\u201d would be \u201ca key consideration in 2023.\u201d<\/p>\n
However, Drewry is also advising shippers to play hardball in terms of new rate agreements and on terms and conditions of the contracts \u2013 for example, on free time for box storage at terminals, higher service level commitments and longer payment terms.<\/p>\n
With container spot rates across many trades in freefall, down some 50% from their peak, Drewry said it \u201cexpects further falls in contract rates during 2023, as overcapacity increases.\u201d<\/p>\n