In the aftermath of the devastating collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, vessel traffic through the Port of Baltimore has been suspended indefinitely upending operations at one of the busiest ports in the U.S., according to a statement from the Maryland Port Authority.
Shipping routes for cargo ships may be rerouted to nearby ports. The Port of New Jersey and New York is the largest port on the East Coast and a short trip from Baltimore, making it a viable option. Ships could also be rerouted to ports south of Baltimore including the Ports of Savannah, Charleston, Virginia and Miami. The Port of Boston is also an option.
The port is not closed and trucks are still being processed at the maritime terminals. Truck delivery drivers along the east coast will have few route options which could also cause delays.
The closure of the port could potentially cause a major economic interruption as the port is one of the largest in the US, according to the State of Maryland.
The closure of the port could have a large effect on the auto industry as the port is an important trade hub ranking first in the nation for the volume of automobiles and light trucks moving through.
Additionally, the port ranked 17th in the country in total tonnage entering and leaving the port in 2021, according to the Bureau of Transportation statistics 2024 report to Congress.
At about 1:30 am Tuesday, a vessel leaving the Port of Baltimore truck the bridge causing the bridget o completely collapse into the Patapsco River. A major search is underway as multiple vehicles and a construction crew repairing potholes were on the bridge at the time, as it has been reported by many news sources.
“Our thoughts are with those who were affected by this terrible incident. As far as our customers are concerned, we are already securing alternatives,” said Tom Peacock, President of Worldwide Logistics Group.
Please contact your sales representative for more information on your shipments and any adjustments being made.