Countries with the Most Congested Ports
China
China has some of the busiest ports in the world, and congestion continues to be a major issue. Shanghai, Ningbo-Zhoushan, and Shenzhen frequently face delays due to high container volumes, adverse weather conditions, and regulatory inspections. China’s dominance in global manufacturing means ports handle immense amounts of cargo daily, often resulting in bottlenecks.
United States
Ports in the United States, particularly Los Angeles and Long Beach, remain congested due to labour shortages, increased import demand, and outdated infrastructure. The supply chain disruptions seen in previous years have led to continued backlog, affecting shipping schedules and logistics planning.
India
Indian ports such as Nhava Sheva (Jawaharlal Nehru Port) and Chennai are under pressure due to rising trade volumes. Limited handling capacity, inadequate storage facilities, and customs clearance delays contribute to congestion. As India expands its role in global trade, investment in port infrastructure will be crucial.
Europe (Germany and the Netherlands)
Major European ports, including Rotterdam (Netherlands) and Hamburg (Germany), experience congestion due to increased container traffic and disruptions in inland transportation. Strikes and new environmental regulations have also slowed operations, creating further delays.
Brazil
Brazil’s ports, such as Santos, face congestion due to inefficiencies in cargo handling and poor connectivity with road and rail networks. Seasonal agricultural exports increase traffic, further straining capacity.
Causes of Port Congestion
According to research, here are the several factors contributing to congestion at these ports:
- High Container Traffic – A surge in global trade and e-commerce has led to increased shipping volumes.
- Labour Shortages – Strikes, lack of skilled workers, and regulatory changes disrupt port operations.
- Infrastructure Limitations – Some ports lack modern handling equipment, deepwater berths, and automated systems.
- Weather and Natural Disasters – Typhoons, storms, and extreme weather conditions cause unexpected delays.
- Regulatory Issues – Stricter customs checks and environmental regulations slow down clearance processes.
Impact on Global Trade
Port congestion creates bottlenecks in the supply chain, leading to shipment delays, increased costs, and uncertainty in global trade. Businesses struggle with rising freight charges, while consumers face higher prices and potential shortages of goods.
Port congestion affects businesses and consumers in several ways:
- Higher Shipping Costs – Delays increase storage and operational costs, leading to higher freight rates.
- Longer Transit Times – Goods take longer to reach markets, affecting supply chain reliability.
- Product Shortages – Essential goods may be delayed, impacting industries that rely on just-in-time deliveries.
- Diversion of Shipments – Some cargo is rerouted to alternative ports, increasing transit complexity.
How Businesses Can Adapt
Businesses facing port congestion must adopt proactive strategies to avoid severe disruptions. By planning ahead, leveraging technology, and working with reliable logistics partners, they can minimise delays and maintain supply chain efficiency.
To mitigate the effects of congestion, businesses can:
- Plan Shipments in Advance – Early booking and flexible scheduling help navigate delays.
- Use Alternative Ports – Exploring different shipping routes reduces reliance on congested hubs.
- Improve Supply Chain Visibility – Real-time tracking and predictive analytics can enhance decision-making.
- Work with Reliable Logistics Partners – Expert customs brokers and freight forwarders streamline processes and reduce delays.
Need Help Navigating Port Congestion?
Dealing with port congestion requires strategic planning and experienced partners. Even in 2025, port congestion remains a challenge, but businesses that adopt proactive strategies can minimise disruptions and maintain efficient trade flows. Raw Global offers expert customs clearance services to ensure smooth shipping operations. Contact us today to learn more.
