Prompt bunker fuel availability is experiencing significant tightness across major bunkering hubs in Europe and Africa. In the Amsterdam-Rotterdam-Antwerp (ARA) region, all fuel grades are scarce, with suppliers reporting ongoing delays at loading terminals. This situation necessitates buyers to plan well in advance to secure their fuel needs.
Similarly, the port of Piraeus is facing extended lead times for High Sulphur Fuel Oil (HSFO) and Ultra Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (ULSFO). Vessels intending to refuel in Piraeus must factor in these delays. Further south, in Luanda, Angola, ship operators are advised to provide a notice of four to five days for deliveries of Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) and Low Sulphur Marine Gasoil (LSMGO).
For freight forwarders and operations managers, this widespread bunker tightness means potential schedule disruptions and increased operational costs. Vessels may experience delays waiting for fuel, impacting transit times and potentially leading to higher demurrage charges. Forward planning for bunker calls is crucial, and alternative bunkering locations or fuel strategies might need to be considered to mitigate risks and maintain schedule reliability.
