Tippet Richardson has provided an update on the situation in Baltimore following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge following a strike from the container ship, Dali.
The company said that as a result of this incident, the Port of Baltimore has been closed for vessel traffic, leading to significant disruptions in transportation. While the port is still processing trucks within its terminals, the closure has necessitated the rerouting of vehicular traffic, causing delays and congestion, according to the port’s website.
Maryland’s Transportation Authority (MDTA) has advised alternative routes for vehicular traffic, including the I-95 and I-895 tunnels. However, restrictions on vehicle dimensions and hazardous materials transportation have further complicated the situation, with hazardous material-carrying trucks facing detours of approximately 30 miles around Baltimore City. The repercussions of the Baltimore port shutdown will extend to shipping across the entire East Coast. This will result in increased volume at other ports, such as those in New York, Philadelphia, Charleston, and Savannah.
The company said that it expects these disruptions will lead to several weeks of delays in transit time, re-routes, and potential increases in ocean freight across the globe. It has confirmed its commitment to mitigate the disruption as much as possible in its clients’ interests.
Photo: Container ship Dali.