While hurricane activity in the Atlantic has been minimal so far this summer, we are now heading into August and September which are typical peak months for hurricane season. Researchers are expecting about a 28% higher than average number of named storms this season compared to the last 30 year period. As usual, a major storm will impact shippers and carriers and can easily result in substantial supply chain disruptions. (See link for more info at FreightWaves, “Above Average Hurricane Season …”, July 29, 2021, by Jack Glenn)

While production of containers this first half year of 2021 is over double the rate compared to the past two years, the demand for containers continues to escalate, hitting an all-time high price of $3,800 per TEU vs. $1,600 about two years ago (dry, nonrefrigerated/nontank.) According to a recent industry estimate (by Triton International) production volume of TEUs may top over 4.5 million this year. Where does it go from here? (See Read More link for, American Shipper, “Containers are being built at record pace…”, July27, 2021, Greg Miller)

Civil unrest and port disruption that started earlier this month following the arrest of South Africa former president, Jacob Zuma has begun to subside this week, according to a report by The Loadstar. The Port of Durban experienced extensive disruption including terminal closures, as well as ship and operational delays. Recent reports have described the situation and operations as returning mostly back to normal. (See link for The Loadstar, “Port of Durban recovers from civil unrest ….,” July 20, 2021, Mike Wackett)

Following a slowdown at about 50% in June for the China region of the Yantian Port, there will be a much higher volume of ships headed to the Port of LA for July and August, reports American Shipper this week. The current surge of arriving vessels will also be coinciding with higher volumes due to seasonal highs related to back-to-school and upcoming holiday items for the fall and beyond. Estimates are predicting a record-breaking year surpassing 10 million TEUs of cargo for 2021. (See link for American Shipper: “Los Angeles port braces for Yantian catch-up, ....”, July 14, 2021, Greg Miller)

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Well, maybe not that soon. But there are a number of companies collaborating to develop eVTOL (electric, vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft in the newly emerging urban air mobility (UAM) market. Hyundai unveiled its S-A1 flying taxi, while Eve Urban Mobility has joined up with Helisul to produce 50 eVTOLS for operation in Brazil by 2026. Morgan Stanley predicts a $9 trillion UAM market by 2050. (See link for Modern Shipper, “Flying cars set for slow takeoff, rapid ascent”, June, 10, 2021, Brian Straight) (Also see Engadget)

An application for Winding Up was served by Pacific National (a leading Australian intermodal rail company) to WridgWays. A court hearing has been ordered for July 19th. Wridgways is one of Australia’s oldest moving companies established in 1892. (See link for FEDEMAC, The Weekly News, “WridgWays Hit by Winding Up Application”, July 1, 2021)