CMA CGM announces 60-day "early return box incentive plan" to speed up freight

It is learned that on May 16, CMA CGM launched an "Early Return Container Incentive Program", which will last until July 15, 2022, aiming to speed up the return of empty containers to increase freight speed.

The program will be implemented at the FMS terminal in Los Angeles and all CMA CGM return locations in Chicago, Illinois, Dallas, Texas, Kansas City, Kansas, and Memphis, Tennessee.

Empty containers returned within one to four days of issuance will be eligible for the $300 credit, and the program is expected to put approximately 43,000 empty containers back into circulation on or within four days of May 16.

The new program is not the first time CMA CGM has tried to speed up the flow of cargo at U.S. ports. In December 2021, CMA CGM announced a 90-day program that included a $100 early container pick-up bonus for daytime moves at all container terminals and a $200 bonus for night and weekend moves.

CMA CGM said in a statement that the program reduced the time its containers spend in Southern California by nine days, a 73% reduction.

Facilities including the Port of Oakland have opened pop-up container yards to help boost exports as import demand surges and port congestion grows. California has leased sites across the state to a private company to provide more space at the state’s overwhelmed ports and warehouses.

“Our new program will bring incentive credits to our importers, improve equipment availability for our exporters, and speed up the flow of cargo to and from America’s heartland. It’s a win-win for everyone,” CMA CGM said.

Editor✎ Ashley/

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