Adjusting to a new normal: Why understanding shipping complexities matters more than ever
In today’s evolving geopolitical and economic climate, the maritime transport sector is having to adjust to a new normal. Predictable routes and shipping schedules are becoming increasingly rare, replaced by a global operating environment defined by complexity, volatility, and uncertainty.
For asset and cargo owners, getting from A to B is now as much about risk mitigation as it is about transporting assets. At Peters & May, we recognise the unique challenges today’s evolving geopolitical and economic climate present, particularly for the movement of specialised project cargo such as heavy machinery, out-of-gauge equipment, and marine assets like tugboats. Given these challenges, the specialist experience of our Commercial Marine Transport division becomes even more valuable; delivering reliable, safe, and efficient solutions in a world where certainty is rare.
Adapting to the unexpected
Territorial tensions, trade sanctions, and armed conflict in critical shipping regions such as the Red Sea are reshaping global supply routes. Many multi-purpose vessels (MPVs) now have no choice but to take the longer route around the Cape of Good Hope, rather than the formerly efficient Asia–Europe corridor. A journey that used to take 25 days can now take twice as long, resulting in rising fuel, insurance, and chartering costs. Longer transit times are also leading to fewer vessels returning to service in key regions.
In this more volatile environment, traditional cost-per-ton metrics don’t tell the full story. The transport of specialist project cargo—such as oversized equipment, out-of-gauge machinery, pontoons, or wind farm components—requires detailed planning, a hands-on understanding of port capabilities, and the ability to adapt fast when the unexpected occurs.
Rerouting a high-speed catamaran shipment
Transporting high-value marine assets across unpredictable global trade routes requires agility, foresight, and precision coordination, as demonstrated by a recent Peters & May shipment of a high-speed catamaran from Southampton, UK to South Korea.
Initially, the vessel planned to continue through the Red Sea after transiting the Suez Canal and calling at Jeddah, following a brief de-escalation in Yemen. However, as conditions rapidly deteriorated—including renewed Houthi rebel attacks on commercial ships—the shipowner reassessed and ruled out the route due to rising geopolitical risks. With safety top priority, the vessel was rerouted back through the Suez Canal and around the Cape of Good Hope—an alternative that significantly extended the voyage time but eliminated exposure to regional conflict.
This change of route involved rapid, strategic decision-making and close coordination with multiple stakeholders across continents. The team quickly adapted the voyage plan, securing the necessary permits, port arrangements, and vessel support to accommodate the new, longer route. The rerouting also introduced a new set of logistical and technical considerations—such as weather variations, fuel resupply, crew scheduling, and increased transit risks over a longer distance. Peters & May’s established protocols and long-standing relationships with global partners were crucial in facilitating the seamless continuation of the shipment.
Planning ahead in a shifting landscape
The rerouting of vessels around the Cape of Good Hope due to Red Sea instability continues to affect delivery timelines and MPV availability, impacting voyage length, time and costs. In such conditions, having the right partner becomes critical.
With decades of experience and a deep understanding of both geopolitical trends and specialised transport requirements, Peters & May brings stability to a volatile environment. Our commercial transport solutions are about more than moving cargo—they’re about managing risk, saving time, and delivering confidence.
For tailored advice on your next cargo movement, speak to our team.
We specialise in navigating complexity—so whether you’re facing route uncertainty, out-of-gauge cargo, or tight timelines, we’re here to help.
📞 +44 (0)2380 480 440
📩 commercial@petersandmay.com
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