16 Nov 2012
Hapag-Lloyd provides ?Questions & Answers? and status update on Hurricane Sandy impact.
We would like to provide you with a status update of the situation caused by hurricane Sandy in New York with the following Q&A:
What is the current status of Port of New York?
Five marine terminals in NY/NJ are operational. All five continue to suffer challenges to varying degrees. Terminals are faced with extreme congestion, backlog of import and export freight, vessel bunching, chassis, truck and equipment shortages. Terminal gates will be open on Saturday November 17, 2012 in efforts to advance the recovery effort.
What is being done to improve the situation and restore the schedule?
Modifications to the vessel schedules are ongoing and status is regularly updated in our web schedule:
http://www.hapag-lloyd.com/en/schedules/interactive.html
Customer advisories will be issued for vessels affected by these changes.
What is the status of Intermodal Operations to and from Port of New York?
Severe congestion as well as significant shortage of truck power, chassis and genset equipment in the New York area has created a backlog of both import and export freight. Currently we are experiencing two week delays for door laden cargo. We are exhausting every effort to keep the freight moving and restore fluidity to the area.
Customers are encouraged to explore alternative port options or arrange own inland until the situation improves.
Can we expect additional costs as a result of this situation?
While we are making every effort to minimize the cost implications, this situation constitutes Force Majeure. Based upon the governing bill of lading, tariff and/or applicable law, Hapag-Lloyd has no responsibility for any loss, damage or delay, or any other liability of whatsoever nature, caused by this extreme weather event resulting from an Act of God beyond our control and any additional storage, additional transportation, terminal fees or other costs, incurred by Hapag-Lloyd will be for your account.
Can I terminate my shipment at the port and arrange own inland?
Customers may request termination of their shipment at the port and coordinate their own inland. Please contact your Customer Service Import Department to discuss and/or coordinate.
Are there any options being offered by Hapag-Lloyd for export cargoes?
We offer routings via alternative ports on a case by case basis.
What do I do if I find damage to my cargo or need to make a claim?
Immediately upon detection of damaged cargo, customers must provide written notice of loss or damage to Hapag-Lloyd with an invitation for a joint survey.
We appreciate your continued support and patience as we work through the challenges presented by this natural disaster.