Ocean carriers that were trying to delay deliveries of ships a year ago are now pushing shipyards to bring forward construction dates as confidence returns to container shipping, according to a leading analyst.
Order cancellations, deferrals, idling and scrapping excess tonnage, which were still key concerns for carriers as recently as the first quarter of this year, have now given way to renewed optimism, Alphaliner, the Paris-based consultant says.
“In stark contrast to last year’s trend to postpone the deliveries of new buildings, in some cases until 2014, some owners are currently seeking earlier delivery dates for 2012.”