Increased Risk of Container Loss Due to Bad Weather: The Cape of Good Hope Shipping Issue

Maritime transport is a crucial element that supports global logistics.

However, recent accidents involving container loss due to bad weather along the Cape of Good Hope route in South Africa are raising concerns.


Particularly in freight transport from Asia to Europe, this risk cannot be ignored. Here, we explain recent accidents and their impact.

Increase in Container Loss Accidents Due to Bad Weather

On the route via the Cape of Good Hope off the coast of South Africa, container loss accidents caused by bad weather have been increasing.

Since July of this year, there have been three reported accidents where 189 containers were lost at sea.


These incidents not only result in damage to the ship and cargo but also cause delays in operations.

Specific Accident Cases: MSC and CMA-CGM’s Damage

An MSC ship lost 46 containers at sea due to bad weather, and 305 containers were damaged.

Additionally, on August 15, a CMA-CGM ship lost 99 containers at sea. Another accident on July 9 involving a CMcgm ship resulted in the loss of 44 containers.


These cases highlight the growing risks and the uncertainty of safe transport via the Cape of Good Hope.

Shipping Risks via the Cape of Good Hope and Its Impact

When containers are lost at sea, many float on the surface, posing a hazard to other vessels navigating the same waters.

Furthermore, these incidents lead to shipping delays and increased costs for shipping companies, including rising insurance premiums.


The route via the Cape of Good Hope not only has the drawback of being longer but also is becoming more susceptible to weather conditions.