ONE announces temporary empty container return arrangement in the Middle East

SINGAPORE : In light of the evolving situation affecting navigation and port operations in the Persian Gulf and around the Strait of Hormuz, and in order to safeguard the safety of vessels, crew, and cargo, Ocean Network Express (ONE) will implement temporary arrangements for the return of empty containers.

ONE has introduced temporary restrictions on empty container returns across several Middle East markets as security concerns and operational disruptions continue to affect navigation around the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf.

The Singapore headquartered container carrier said the measures took effect on March 12 and apply to import shipments into the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Iraq, and Oman.

Under the temporary arrangement, customers must return empty containers only to two designated ports. These are Sohar in Oman and Jeddah in Saudi Arabia.

The policy applies to import customers in Dubai as well as those located elsewhere in the affected countries. Local detention and demurrage tariffs will apply at the designated return terminals in accordance with local regulations.

Alternative return option carries steep drop off charges
For customers unable or unwilling to reposition empty containers to Sohar or Jeddah, the carrier has introduced an alternative drop off arrangement. This option comes with a significant cost.

Shippers choosing this route will face drop off charges of USD 2,250 for a 20 foot container and USD 2,750 for a 40 foot unit. The fee must be settled before the delivery order is issued.

The carrier did not specify alternative drop locations but indicated that the charge applies where containers are not returned to the designated hubs.

In practical terms, the measure shifts the burden of repositioning empties back onto import customers. For freight forwarders and logistics providers operating in Gulf markets, that could mean higher inland transport costs or difficult equipment repositioning decisions.

Industry observers note that equipment management becomes particularly sensitive during periods of maritime security risk. When vessel movements are disrupted or port calls change, empty container flows often fall out of balance quickly.

Measures linked to evolving maritime security conditions
The policy applies immediately for non FMC regulated trades from March 12. For FMC regulated trades including the United States and Canada, the rule will take effect on April 11.

ONE said the arrangement will remain in place until further notice and may change depending on operational conditions in the region.

The carrier urged customers with questions regarding specific shipments to contact their local representatives as the situation continues to evolve.