What is a Blank Sailing?
A blank sailing happens when a carrier cancels a scheduled vessel service. This can mean skipping a single port or canceling the entire voyage. Think of it as a flight cancellation, but for ocean freight - the "flight" is removed from the schedule entirely. These cancellations affect all cargo that was planned to move on that vessel.
Why Do Blank Sailings Happen?
Carriers implement blank sailings for several business reasons:
- Managing capacity during low-demand periods
- Adjusting service after major holidays (like Chinese New Year)
- Responding to unexpected market changes
- Conducting vessel maintenance
- Restructuring shipping alliances
- Balancing vessel utilization with operating costs
Impact on Your Supply Chain
When a blank sailing occurs, it affects your shipments in several ways:
- Cargo rolls to the next available vessel
- Transit times increase due to the delay
- Port pairs might temporarily lose direct service
- Alternative routing may become necessary
- Supply chain planning requires adjustment
- Potential impact on inventory management
Build buffer time into your supply chain planning to account for potential blank sailings, especially during traditional low-season periods or after major holidays. Stay in close communication with your freight forwarder or carrier to receive early notifications of blank sailings that might affect your cargo.
