Survitec has issued a warning to shipowners and operators regarding a noticeable increase in port state control (PSC) detentions. These detentions are now a more predictable operational risk for global fleets, largely driven by inadequate safety systems, substandard maintenance practices, and procedural shortcomings on vessels. The company's white paper, "In-port Detentions: The costs and implications for an ageing fleet – and how to avoid," highlights that an aging fleet contributes significantly to this problem, leading to higher operational costs and disruptions.
For freight forwarders and operations managers, this trend signifies potential delays and increased costs. Vessels with a history of deficiencies or those nearing the end of their operational lifespan may face closer scrutiny, leading to longer port stays for inspections or even detention. This directly impacts schedule reliability, potentially causing missed connections, demurrage charges, and disruptions to supply chains. Forwarders should consider the age and maintenance records of vessels when booking cargo, especially for time-sensitive or high-value shipments, and factor in potential delays at ports known for stringent PSC inspections. The increased risk of detention could also lead to higher insurance premiums for carriers, which may eventually be passed on to shippers through freight rates.
