Good Morning

A note from our CEO, Richard Roman Jr

This week we are seeing the early stages of a global equipment imbalance — most notably a tightening supply of 20GP containers.

This is not happening in isolation. It is a direct result of escalating tensions in the Middle East, where vessel rerouting, port disruptions, and longer transit cycles are beginning to impact how equipment flows globally.

When container circulation slows, availability tightens — and we are now starting to see that play out in real time.

While still developing, these conditions can escalate quickly. We are advising clients to stay proactive with planning and booking strategies as the situation evolves.

The Roundup

What moved the world this week

Customs & Trade Policy Update

20GP Container Shortage Emerging

As a direct result of these disruptions, we are now seeing a tightening availability of 20GP containers in key origin markets.
The core issue is container imbalance:

Equipment is not returning to the origin markets on normal cycles
Containers are stranded in non-traditional locations
Rerouting is extending turnaround times globally

20GP containers are particularly impacted due to their use in:

Heavy and dense cargo
Commodities and raw materials
Machinery and industrial shipments

At the same time, carriers are prioritizing 40’ equipment for higher-yield cargo, further tightening 20GP supply.

What This Means for Your Shipments

We are already beginning to see early-stage impacts:

Reduced 20GP availability at origin
Longer lead times to secure equipment
Increased risk of rollovers or booking delays
Emerging equipment imbalance and contingency surcharges

For shipments that rely on 20GP containers, planning timelines will become increasingly important.

Supply Chain & Logistics News

Middle East Disruptions Begin to Impact Global Shipping

Ongoing conflict in the Middle East is significantly disrupting global shipping networks, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical maritime corridors.

Carriers are actively adjusting operations:

Vessels are being rerouted away from high-risk zones
Some services into the Gulf region are being suspended or modified
Containers are being discharged at alternate ports
Alternative routing via Africa and regional land bridges is increasing

These adjustments are leading to:

Extended transit times across key trade lanes
Operational congestion and delays
Reduced network reliability

Carriers are also introducing additional charges, including:

Emergency/conflict surcharges
War risk premiums
Fuel-related increases tied to rising oil prices

These costs are expected to flow through to shippers over the coming weeks.

The Forecast

Trends, goals, and what’s on the radar at JR Global

While this situation is still developing, history shows that equipment imbalances can escalate quickly once global routing is disrupted.

If current conditions persist, we expect:

Continued tightening of 20GP availability
Increased rate and surcharge volatility
Longer booking windows required
Greater need for flexibility in equipment planning

At this stage, the issue is not yet widespread across all lanes — but pressure is building, and we are monitoring closely.

The Shortcut

Smart tips for smart shippers — key takeaways from this week’s newsletter

Middle East tensions disrupting global shipping routes
Vessel rerouting and delays impacting container circulation
Early signs of 20GP container shortages
Heavier cargo shipments likely to be most affected
Expect longer lead times and tighter availability
Advisable to secure bookings early and plan ahead

The Playlist

What the JR team is listening to this week in the office

Spotify Playlist

Newsletter [March 22 - March 28]