Global Mobility Insights from K2 Group, Q3 2026 - Part II

Shipping

EMEA

Europe  

Industrial action at key Northern European ports, including Hamburg, Bremerhaven and Rotterdam, has created disruption across regional ocean freight networks. While the official strike action has now concluded, ports and logistics providers continue to manage the resulting backlog of cargo, and delays are expected to persist as operations return to normal. The disruption has occurred against an already constrained logistics environment, with many providers experiencing capacity pressures, congestion and extended lead times prior to the strikes. As a result, recovery may take several days or weeks depending on shipment origin, destination and carrier routing.

For relocations involving European ocean freight, clients may continue to experience extended transit times, reduced schedule reliability, delayed deliveries and increased shipping-related costs while carriers, terminals and inland transport providers work to clear backlogs and restore normal service levels.

Middle East  

We continue to monitor the situation in the Middle East and at present international household goods shipments remain largely business as usual, with origin, destination and transportation services operating normally. However, ongoing security concerns in the Red Sea region mean that some ocean carriers are continuing to apply selective vessel rerouting, enhanced security measures and, in certain cases, war-risk surcharges. For shipments moving on affected trade lanes, this can result in extended transit times of approximately 10 to 14 days and occasional schedule changes, particularly for services that would typically transit the Suez Canal. While any additional costs are generally being managed through carrier surcharges rather than widespread freight rate increases, these remain route-specific and may vary by shipment. We are working closely with our shipping partners to monitor developments and will continue to provide proactive updates should conditions change.

Africa

Customs processes across Africa continue to evolve, with authorities adopting more stringent compliance and audit measures. Greater focus on valuation accuracy, documentation quality, and regulatory adherence is increasing the importance of thorough shipment preparation. In parallel, infrastructure constraints and congestion at key ports continue to contribute to longer transit times and potential delays in cargo movement.

KENYA: Effective August 2026, Kenya has implemented a mandatory Advance Cargo Declaration (ACD) process for containerised cargo destined for Kenyan ports. An ACD reference number must be obtained prior to cargo loading. As a result, relocating employees and shipping providers will need to ensure all shipment documentation is completed accurately and submitted in advance of departure. Failure to secure the required ACD approval may result in shipment delays, missed vessel departures, additional costs, or customs clearance complications.

EGYPT: Currently, importing household goods into Egypt within 20- to 40-foot containers can generate customs duties and taxes ranging from $10,000–$15,000. These charges apply to both expats and returning nationals. In addition, Egypt is limiting the amount of clothing that each assignee may import; items which exceed the permitted allowance may be returned.

Major investments in logistics infrastructure, ports and customs modernisation are improving connectivity. Kenya, Egypt, Ghana and Nigeria continue positioning themselves as regional trade hubs.

• Nigeria announced a huge $27 billion plan to build new ports and ease pressure on Lagos, using both TinCan and Apapa.

• Ghana's Tema port has already tripled how much cargo it can handle.

SOUTH AFRICA: Durban Port continues to face operational pressures and congestion, reflecting broader disruptions across global shipping networks. However, South Africa remains a key logistics hub within Africa, supported by extensive shipping links, established relocation service providers, and mature transportation infrastructure. Ongoing investment in port and transport infrastructure, including crane modernisation and road improvements in Cape Town, is expected to strengthen long-term capacity and support more efficient cargo flows as trade volumes continue to grow.

K2's fourth and final Global Mobility Insights publication of the year will be released at the end of December.

In the meantime, should you have any questions or requests for support, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.