Maersk improves ME2 service between India and North Europe, resulting in faster transit times

Danish shipping major A.P. Moller – Maersk (Maersk) has recently made significant upgrades to its ME2 ocean service, connecting India, the Middle East, and Europe. The changes, set to take effect in the third week of April, will include port calls to key destinations in North Europe, such as Rotterdam, Felixstowe, and Bremerhaven. This enhancement aims to reduce transit times for cargo movement between India and North Europe, benefiting sectors like retail & lifestyle and automotive.

The newly revised rotation of the ME2 service will now include ports like Rotterdam, Felixstowe, and Bremerhaven directly, which were previously connected through transshipment. This change will lead to shorter transit times as cargo will no longer have to go through additional handling processes. In the future, these transit times are expected to decrease even further if the possibility of using the Red Sea route becomes available.

Under the previous format, shipping from Mumbai to Rotterdam took approximately 35 days, whereas with the upgraded ME2 service, it will only take around 30 days. Similarly, a shipment from Mundra to Felixstowe that used to take 41 days will now be reduced to about 34 days. The main types of cargo expected on this route include retail and lifestyle goods from India to North Europe and automotive parts and components on the return journey.

According to Morten Juul, Head of Regional Ocean Management for Indian Subcontinent, Middle East & Africa at Maersk, these enhancements to the ME2 service demonstrate the company’s commitment to providing faster and more reliable ocean services on one of the most crucial trade routes. The changes will not only streamline operations but also contribute to the efficiency and effectiveness of global supply chains.