Matson has advised that unusually strong demand driven by a dramatic rebound in Hawaii tourism together with increased retail activity has driven Hawaii cargo volume to levels not experienced in several years. The current surge in volume has created a strain on their network resulting in spot container shortages at Mainland ports (particularly with refrigerated containers) and slower than normal freight processing. Recent vessel delays have also contributed to cargo bunching in Hawaii, causing slower availability, some grounded loads, and missed neighbor island barges.
Matson is addressing the primary challenge of equipment shortages to improve the flow of cargo by:
- Securing additional containers and chassis. Matson has recently secured 1300 additional chassis that will be entering their network over the next few months. 150 additional chassis are being repositioned to Sand Island Terminal in Honolulu and the process of repositioning has already started and will continue over the next several vessel arrivals. 900 additional units refrigerated containers have been secured, already flowing into their network and will continue to do so through mid-August.
- Extending Honolulu terminal hours. Matson’s Sand Island Terminal will be adding night gates as needed to expedite cargo flow.
Thank you for your understanding as we expect service to improve gradually in the coming weeks as these initiatives take effect.
