Bunker fuel availability in North America, specifically within the US Gulf Coast, is presently constrained. Demand has been robust in the port of Houston over the past week, contributing to a tightening supply across most providers. This situation has resulted in longer lead times for vessel operators seeking to refuel.
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 extended planning, with lead times ranging from five to six days.
For freight forwarders and operations managers, this tightening availability and extended lead times for bunker fuel could impact vessel schedules and potentially increase operational costs. Shippers may experience slight delays due to longer refueling stops, and carriers might factor higher bunker costs into their freight rates. Forwarders should advise clients on potential schedule adjustments and monitor fuel price fluctuations closely.
