Client support update — Middle East logistics and shipment impacts
Client support update — Activity across the Middle East remains active, and disruption in this region continues to affect shipment planning, routing and delivery timelines across several corridors. Airfreight capacity across key regional hubs remains below typical levels in some locations, with reduced schedules, rerouting and short-notice changes affecting uplift and transit times. This is limiting flexibility for time-sensitive household goods movements and placing pressure on available capacity.
Across ocean freight, ports in the Gulf are generally operational. Carriers and forwarders continue to report congestion, reduced vessel calls and operational constraints in some locations. Shipments are in some cases being rolled to later sailings or held pending confirmed routing, contributing to extended transit times. Additional handling measures, including storage in transit and alternative routing, are being used to maintain movement. Customs clearance and inspection timelines may also be extended in certain locations due to reduced processing capacity and backlog from earlier disruption. Cost pressure is also increasing across parts of the network, linked to fuel, routing adjustments, carrier surcharges and operational contingencies introduced to maintain service continuity.
Relocations and shipments continue to move, but planning, routing and timing require closer coordination, particularly where moves involve or transit through affected areas. Lead times may need to be extended and delivery windows remain subject to change. Santa Fe continues to monitor conditions across origin, transit and destination points, working closely with supply chain partners and local providers to manage disruption and maintain service continuity wherever possible. We recommend reviewing shipment timelines carefully and speaking with your Santa Fe contact before confirming pack dates, routing or delivery schedules. Each move is assessed individually to determine the most appropriate solution based on current operating conditions.
Our focus remains on helping our clients support their people during uncertain circumstances. We will continue to monitor developments and remain available to assist organisations and their employees wherever support is needed. If you have any questions or require further guidance, please contact your Santa Fe representative.
Parmis Ershadpour
Managing Director Middle East
Santa Fe Relocation
parmis.ershadpour@santaferelo.com
