Durban Port Update – Recovery Continues, but Congestion Costs Emerge

Sep 3

1 min read

Dear Valued Client

There are signs of improvement at Durban Gateway Terminal (DGT), with the NAVIS N4 system now stable and yard occupancy reducing significantly. However, the vessel backlog remains substantial and the terminal is still working through accumulated cargo volumes. Import evacuation and landside operations are improving, but ETA changes, vessel delays and limited port bookings for container movements remain a concern. We therefore recommend that importers and exporters continue allowing additional contingency for Durban cargo while the backlog is cleared.

New Durban Congestion Fee

A further cost implication has now emerged. Maersk has announced a Congestion Fee Destination (CFD) effective 15 September 2026 for imports from the Far East and Middle East to Durban Gateway Terminal.

Importantly, Maersk's published tariff applies to all applicable 20ft and 40ft containers, including ISO tanks:

20ft: US$250 per container
40ft: US$500 per container

The charge is specifically linked to DGT discharge. At this stage, Maersk is the only carrier for which we have received formal confirmation. We are awaiting confirmation from other shipping lines regarding whether they will introduce a similar charge, together with their applicable tariffs and effective dates.

SCT continues to monitor the port recovery, carrier measures and potential additional charges closely, while engaging with the relevant parties to minimise the impact on our customers. We will provide further updates as conditions develop.