Bunker fuel availability in the US Gulf, specifically at the port of Houston, has experienced a notable tightening in recent days. This is primarily attributed to robust demand from vessels. Suppliers are reporting slightly constrained prompt availability across most fuel types.
Currently, lead times for High Sulphur Fuel Oil (HSFO) and Low Sulphur Marine Gas Oil (LSMGO) are estimated to be between five and seven days. Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) also requires a minimum lead time of five days. This situation suggests that vessels planning to refuel in the region should factor in these extended waiting periods.
For freight forwarders and operations managers, this tightening availability could translate into potential delays for vessel schedules if bunkering operations are not planned well in advance. Longer lead times for fuel procurement may necessitate adjustments to port calls or routing, potentially impacting transit times and operational costs. Shippers might experience indirect effects through schedule reliability.
