Inland Network Constraints Due to Low Rhine Water Levels

Dear valued ONE customer, 

Ocean Network Express (ONE) wishes to update valued customers on the severe low-water situation across Central Europe, where water levels at Kaub have dropped to 24cm and the Ruhr region to 150cm. This critical water shortage severely impacts our inland network, affecting intermodal transport and terminal operations across Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, and Austria. Consequently, numerous barge operators have suspended services, pushing key Middle Rhine and Ruhr corridors - with heavy impact on Dangerous Goods (DG) cargo - to an imminent operational halt.

With vessel navigation effectively constrained, standard lead times and loading guarantees on affected barge routes are formally suspended, and all barge shipments remain subject to the applicable Low Water Surcharge (LWS). While alternative rail and road feeder networks are currently utilized to their absolute maximum capacity, ONE transport planning teams are continuously monitoring equipment and terminal flows to mitigate severe delays. 
Please kindly note that any additional demurrage or terminal storage charges incurred at ports and inland terminals as a result of these low-water conditions will remain for the customer’s account upon expiration of standard free time.

We strongly encourage customers to consult their local ONE Customer Service or Sales representatives immediately to discuss alternative routing and manage time-sensitive shipments. To prevent inland depot gridlock and maintain regional supply chain continuity, clients are requested to return empty containers directly to coastal ocean gateways in Rotterdam and Antwerp where possible.

You can also find our most recent LWS tariff on our website:
EUROPE AND AFRICA LOCAL SURCHARGES

Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact your sales account representative for additional support: 
https://eua.one-line.com/standard-page/office-location

Yours faithfully,
Ocean Network Express