Adrian Leach – 19th December 2021
Whilst many of us thought that 2021 shipping rate hikes were exorbitant, when compared with 2019, it is obvious that 2022 might be even worse.
The British Association of Removers (BAR) December 2021 update is quite clear: during 2021 the rates were kept artificially low due to the preferential contract signed at the start of 2021 but that will not last.
The shipping lines didn’t even honour their agreed rates in 2021 because they wouldn’t let removers book space. When they did allow a booking, we saw examples of household goods containers getting bumped off ships in favour of those paying higher rates.
BAR are also very clear that the Shipping Lines are also responsible for the decline in customer service and reliability. It appears they are hiding behind numerous excuses they put forward to explain their failures and the extra costs incurred. It is even more harrowing for those whose household goods have been left in the departure port. However, neither the removal company nor HCR can do anything to influence the outcome. Understandably, this doesn’t sit well with our clients, and it becomes a source of frustration for everyone because this flies in the face of our high service standards.
HCR will continue to work closely with our removal partners to seek the best rates, to confirm bookings and continually chase for information on shipping and arrival dates.