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Godrej Launches India’s First Multilon Battery For Forklifts

Warehousing

Godrej Launches India’s First Multilon Battery For Forklifts

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May 15, 2026 • 0 Comments

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Godrej Launches India’s First Multilon Battery For Forklifts

India’s material handling sector has received a major innovation boost with the launch of the country’s first Multilon battery technology for electric forklifts by Godrej Enterprises Group. Developed by the company’s Material Handling Equipment division, the new battery solution aims to improve efficiency, reduce operational costs, and support sustainable warehouse operations.

The launch comes at a time when India’s warehousing and logistics industries are expanding rapidly, driven by e-commerce growth, manufacturing activity, and increasing demand for modern supply chain infrastructure.

According to the company, the Multilon battery technology can lower forklift operating costs by nearly 25 percent over its lifecycle. The batteries are designed for long-term use and support features such as fast charging, opportunity charging, and maintenance-free performance.

The technology was developed in collaboration with an Indian deep-tech battery company and offers up to 5,000 charging cycles, significantly higher than conventional lithium-ion batteries. It also reduces reliance on rare-earth materials, helping minimize environmental impact and disposal concerns.

One of the key advantages of the new battery system is its agility to operate efficiently in temperature above 45 degree Celsius, making it suitable for challenging Indian industrial conditions.

Company officials said the launch reflects the growing focus on sustainable and future-ready industrial solutions that can improve productivity and energy efficiency across warehouses and logistics operations.

Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates.

Warehousing

Welspun One & Balmer Lawrie Inks LoI For Warehousing Space at JNPA SEZ

Welpsun One, a well-known warehousing real estate platform, announced that it signed a LoI with Balmer Lawrie and Co to sublease warehousing space in the financial capital of India, Mumbai. As per the Letter of Intent, Welpsun One will sublease around 65000 sq ft of Grade A+ warehousing space at WTC Nhava Sheva within the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) special economic zone to the company for a period of five years. With this move, Balmer Lawrie and Co became the first central public sector undertaking (PSU) to collaborate with Welspun One across its diversified portfolio. The partnership will also strengthen the company's rapid expansion into special economic zone (SEZ) warehousing and port-linked logistics operations, riding on its operating strengths in CFS (container freight station) operations, freight forwarding, and international trade facilitation. It is learnt that the facility is likely to be operational by the start of 2027. Currently, Balmer Lawrie already operates a container freight station at Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) located in Navi Mumbai. The WTC Nhava Sheva facility, widely known to provide customs duty deferment and a swift clearance, will widen that footprint further into SEZ warehousing and value-added logistics services. Neeraj Balani, Chief Customer Officer, Welspun One, stated, “WTC Nhava Sheva has been designed for partners who require high-quality infrastructure, regulatory efficiency and direct proximity to India's most crucial port-led trade gateway, and we truly believe this will set the tone for many more institutional engagements.” WTC Nhava Sheva is Welspun One’s main project inside the JNPA SEZ and spans an area of 55 acres and offers about 4.45 million square feet of development space, with an investment of Rs 2,700 crore. Welspun One believes that the project would bring together warehousing, industrial, and EXIM-linked operations all in one place, under one roof, creating an integrated hub for businesses. For more such news and updates, visit CARGOCONNECT.

Admin May 15, 2026 0

Godrej Launches India’s First Multilon Battery For Forklifts

Delhi drafts policy to modernize Warehousing and Supply Chains

Crown Worldwide Expands India Footprint with New Coimbatore Facility

Celcius Logistics and Ottobock India launch dedicated Prosthetics Warehouse in Thane

Ottobock India partners with Celcius Logistics to strengthen nationwide Prosthetics network with new Thane Warehouse

In a major step toward improving India’s medical device supply chain, Celcius Logistics has partnered with Ottobock India to launch a dedicated prosthetics and assistive-device warehouse facility in Thane, Maharashtra. The newly launched facility, located at Wagle Estate, spans approximately 3,000 sq ft and has been developed to support the storage and nationwide distribution of advanced prosthetic limbs, orthotic devices and other specialized healthcare products. The warehouse features 110 slotted racks, more than 700 bin locations, and a temperature- controlled section for storing sensitive medical materials. Under a five- year agreement, Celcius Logistics, an Indian healthcare and cold-chain logistics company will manage the end-to-end warehouse operations and transportation for Ottobock India, the Indian arm of Germany-based prosthetics manufacturer Ottobock. Both firms have already indicated plans to expand the facility’s operational capacity by nearly 25 percent within the next year as demand increases. Commenting on the partnership, Swarup Bose, Founder and CEO, Celcius Logistics, said, “This partnership reflects how healthcare supply chains in India are evolving towards greater precision, reliability, and accountability. At Celcius, we are focused on building infrastructure that can consistently support the movement of high-value, sensitive medical products at scale. By combining our technology-led logistics capabilities with Ottobock’s global expertise, we are enabling a more robust and responsive distribution ecosystem.” The launch of the Thane facility is therefore being seen by industry experts not only as a warehousing expansion, but also as a broader move toward building a specialized healthcare logistics in India. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates.

Admin May 15, 2026 0

GDP compliant warehouse of GEODIS in Manchester

GEODIS enhances pharmaceutical logistics near Manchester Airport with new GDP-compliant warehouse

Transworld Terminals launches state-of-the-art Logistics Park in Chennai

Sameera Warehouster strengthens position in Southern India with strategic expansion into Ennathur and Chengalpet

Maersk and Mawani unveil Middle East's largest logistics park at Jeddah Islamic Port

A.P. Moller – Maersk (Maersk) and the General Ports Authority of Saudi Arabia, known as Mawani, unveiled the largest Maersk Logistics Park in the Middle East at Jeddah Islamic Port on Wednesday. The opening ceremony was graced by notable figures including His Excellency Engineer Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and Chairman of the General Ports Authority, and Vincent Clerc, CEO of A.P. Moller – Maersk, alongside other key officials from the logistics and business sectors. In his keynote address, Engineer Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser highlighted the transformation of Saudi Arabia’s ports sector, marked by higher operational efficiency and growing maritime connectivity. He emphasised that the new logistics park will play a pivotal role in strengthening Saudi Arabia's economic activities, supporting trade, exports, and improving supply chain logistics. "The Maersk Logistics Park at Jeddah Islamic Port will contribute significantly to the Kingdom’s economic development by providing top-tier logistics services that enhance trade movement and export capabilities," Al-Jasser stated. Omar bin Talal Hariri, President of the General Authority of Ports, praised the role of the logistics park in bolstering the logistics industry’s growth. He said, "This facility will facilitate supply chain connectivity, which will drive significant improvements in the operational performance of Saudi ports and enhance the capabilities of the logistics sector." Vincent Clerc, CEO of A.P. Moller – Maersk, emphasised the strategic importance of the new logistics park, positioning Saudi Arabia as a vital hub for global trade. "Our Logistics Park in Jeddah demonstrates our integrated logistics strategy. It supports our customers with resilient logistics while advancing our decarbonisation goals," Clerc remarked. Ahmed Kudous, Head of Supply Chain for Unilever’s Middle East and Turkey region, reiterated the significance of the logistics park in supporting Unilever's sustainability goals. By consolidating operations at the facility, Unilever aims to reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions, aligning with its Net Zero ambition by 2039. Kudous added, "This partnership with Maersk advances our sustainability agenda while contributing to the Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to transform the Kingdom into a leading global logistics hub." Spanning 225,000 square meters, the Maersk Logistics Park offers fully integrated logistics solutions under one roof. It boasts multi-modal connectivity, linking ocean, land, and air transport, and provides warehousing solutions for both B2B and e-commerce. The facility includes temperature-controlled warehouses, custom-bonded setups, and distribution solutions, such as first- and last-mile deliveries, making it ideal for industries ranging from FMCG, frozen food, and retail to petrochemicals, electronics, and pharmaceuticals. The logistics park is also a cornerstone of Maersk’s decarbonisation strategy. Up to 70% of the facility's electricity will be drawn from 32,000 solar panels installed across 64,000 square meters of rooftop space. The site will operate electric equipment and trucks, utilise low-consumption LED lighting, and adopt other energy-efficient technologies, contributing to Maersk’s ambition to achieve Net Zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040. In addition to its environmental initiatives, Maersk has established a women’s academy at the park, dedicated to training and empowering Saudi women in the logistics and supply chain sector. This academy offers specialised training and mentorship programs to enhance diversity and inclusion within an industry traditionally dominated by men. Safety remains a priority at the Maersk Logistics Park, which has been built with world-class firefighting systems, segregated pedestrian and equipment paths, and comprehensive surveillance camera systems to ensure the security of both personnel and cargo. The facility’s state-of-the-art safety measures reflect Maersk’s commitment to creating a safe environment for all stakeholders. Strategically located at Jeddah Islamic Port, which features advanced infrastructure, the logistics park is positioned to leverage modern automated and eco-friendly equipment. This will enhance the port’s operational efficiency, competitiveness, and capacity, enabling it to accommodate new generations of large vessels. The launch of the Maersk Logistics Park is a significant milestone in advancing Saudi Arabia’s logistics capabilities and global trade competitiveness, aligning with the broader objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 to position the Kingdom as a leading logistics hub on the global stage.

Admin August 22, 2024 0

MRF Tyres secures 3.85 lakh sq ft warehousing space in Pune

The Bahamas signs landmark deal with Afreximbank for trade and logistics hub

Safexpress unveils Tamil Nadu’s largest logistics park in Chennai

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Singapore’s Changi Airport is sharpening its focus on pharmaceuticals and e-commerce shipments to navigate constrained cargo capacity until planned expansion in the 2030s. According to Lim Ching Kiat, Executive Vice President of Air Hub and Cargo Development at Changi Airport Group, current facilities face mounting pressure due to growing regional demand, necessitating strategic tenant and cargo type management. E-commerce continues to be a key growth driver for air cargo globally, fueled by major players like Shein, Temu, and TikTok Shop. At the same time, Singapore is solidifying its position as Southeast Asia’s preferred pharmaceutical hub, attracting investments from global biopharma giants such as Thermo Fisher, Sanofi, BioNTech, and MSD. Looking ahead, Changi Airport plans to launch a second logistics park by the 2030s, aiming to increase its annual cargo capacity from 3 million tons to 5.4 million tons. The new free trade zone will further expedite cargo handling and redistribution. In 2024, Changi Airport reported handling 1.99 million tons of airfreight, a 14.6% rise from 2023, driven by robust cross-border e-commerce demand, improved trade routes with China and the U.S., and recovering electronics exports. Top air cargo markets included China, Australia, the U.S., Hong Kong, and India.

A multifaceted approach focussed on continuous improvement and innovation

As we all know, supply chain management encompasses a multifaceted approach to streamline operations, optimise resources, and meet customer demands efficiently. Integrating the entire supply chain involves aligning and synchronising all components, processes, and stakeholders involved—from suppliers to end consumers. Most importantly, an integrated supply chain leverages technology and standardised processes to achieve seamless coordination, visibility, and data sharing across the entire value chain. As businesses navigate the complexities of today’s global marketplace, harnessing the power of an innovative supply chain through enabling technological advancements and process improvements is crucial for establishing resilient, responsive, and future-ready supply chain ecosystems. These aspects are brought together by three crucial elements: technology as the backbone of innovative supply chains, continuous improvement throughout the entire supply chain, and network structures driven by transparent communication and end-to-end visibility. Harish Singh, Head – Supply Chain, Burgerama talks about the amalgamation of these key elements that enable organisations like Burgerama to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving business landscape, fostering innovation and sustainable growth in the realm of supply chain management features. Excerpts by UPAMANYU BORAH from a recent interaction. Genesis and Operations Founded in 2018 by Kabir, Viraaj, and Vivek, Burgerama is a flavour-packed tale of the juiciest cheeseburgers in India. Starting strong in Sushant Lok in October 2018, not even a global pandemic could halt this culinary sensation. What sets Burgerama apart? It's the explosion of taste in every bite, achieved through meticulous ingredient selection and an unwavering commitment to authenticity. Beyond just a food joint, Burgerama is a narrative of enduring friendship and an unyielding quest to craft the perfect burger experience. Now operating 14 delivery outlets across Delhi NCR, Chandigarh, and Bangalore, Burgerama has come to be known for its passionate team, true-to-form flavours and genuinely delicious products, creating a truly unique burger experience for all. Adapting to Macro Challenges In recent times, our burger brand has experienced both positive and negative impacts from the macro environment. A shift towards healthier eating habits has inspired us to innovate our menu, offering diverse options with high-quality, nutritious ingredients, expanding our appeal. Embracing sustainability, we've adopted eco-friendly packaging and responsible sourcing, aligning with evolving consumer values. However, challenges persist. Fluctuating commodity prices and supply chain disruptions occasionally affect our quality and pricing consistency. To address this, we've prioritised supply chain flexibility. Technological investments and strategic partnerships enable swift responses to unforeseen circumstances. Building relationships with multiple suppliers and agile inventory management mitigate localised disruptions. Our logistics infrastructure, designed for agility, includes contingency plans and alternative routes, ensuring seamless operations. Despite macro challenges, our commitment to a flexible supply chain empowers us to navigate obstacles effectively, ensuring consistent delivery of quality burgers to our customers under any circumstances. Global Benchmarks, Local Adaptations Our burger brand prioritises a consistent supply through tech-driven forecasting, strategic partnerships, and global benchmarking. Leveraging predictive analytics, we adjust production to minimise shortages or overstocking. Long-term relationships with suppliers ensure transparent operations, from sourcing to delivery. We adapt successful global practices through benchmarking and continually improve through audits, adopting new technologies or optimising routes. Our commitment to agility and learning from global benchmarks ensures a reliable supply chain, meeting dynamic customer demands. Cost Management Methods In the face of escalating input costs, especially in a landscape where our primary business operates through Zomato and Swiggy, our commitment remains to shield end consumers from additional financial burdens. Our strategy is multi-faceted, emphasising cost management without compromising quality or transferring extra expenses to the customer. Internally, we relentlessly optimise operations, streamlining processes from sourcing to distribution to enhance efficiency and minimise wastage throughout the supply chain. Furthermore, we are resolute in absorbing a certain degree of these cost increases within our operations, ensuring that the quality, value, and experience associated with our brand remain uncompromised. Collaborating closely with our suppliers and distributors, we navigate peak input costs by absorbing some of the financial pressures internally, ultimately ensuring that the end consumer is spared from additional financial strains. Automation advancements in Operations Harnessing advanced information technology has been transformative for our supply chain. Integration of cutting-edge solutions has significantly boosted efficiency, agility, and responsiveness. A key initiative involves implementing robust inventory management systems driven by machine learning algorithms. These systems enhance demand forecasting, optimise inventory levels, and predict supply chain disruptions. This proactive approach ensures balanced stock levels at both outlet and warehouse, preventing excesses or shortages. Automation further streamlines operations, with an indent planning tool seamlessly integrated into our inventory management for more precise order fulfillment planning. Strong Partnerships: Key to minimising disruptions In India's supply chain landscape, seamless coordination among suppliers, distributors, and logistics partners is crucial. Our approach emphasises robust communication channels, fostering transparency, strategy alignment, and quick problem-solving. During crises, like recent disruptions, our coordination becomes even more vital. Swift adaptations, such as diversifying supply channels and optimising stock, help us navigate challenges. Strong partner relationships minimise disruptions. Despite widespread implications, our focus stays on fostering collaborations and open communication to navigate challenges effectively and deliver quality service in alignment with the dynamic Indian market. Logistics: Enabling Our Burger Success In our burger brand's success story in India, logistics plays a vital role, serving as the backbone of our operations. Entrusting specific functions to external partners, such as transportation and warehousing, ensures efficient delivery routes and streamlined distribution. While external partners handle certain tasks, the majority of logistics operations, including inventory management and strategic planning, are internally controlled. This internal control is crucial for optimising inventory, anticipating market demands, and maintaining a smooth product flow. With approximately 90 per cent of logistics operations managed internally, we strike a balance, leveraging external expertise while retaining control over core functions. This collaborative strategy ensures the benefits of specialised skills from partners, coupled with the agility needed to adapt to India's unique market demands. Win-Win Partnerships In selecting logistics partners for our Indian operations, we prioritise reliability, scalability, and technological proficiency. Timely and consistent deliveries are crucial, requiring partners adaptable to India's dynamic landscape. We emphasise technology-driven solutions, favoring partners with advanced tracking systems and route optimisation. Cost-effectiveness is key, seeking competitive pricing without compromising service quality. Transparency, compliance with regulations, and a customer-centric approach are foundational criteria. Thorough evaluations and trial periods ensure compatibility and strong partnerships, ensuring a smooth and efficient logistics operation for our burger brand in India. Efficient Transportation Strategies In response to the evolving logistics landscape in India, our policies and strategies pivot towards embracing alternative transport modes and optimising routes for efficient outsourcing of logistics services. We advocate for multimodal transport, acknowledging the strengths of various modes like road and rail to optimise cost, time, and environmental impact. Prioritising route optimisation through advanced technologies enables us to minimise transit times and costs, leveraging data-driven analytics to assess traffic patterns and road conditions. Collaboration with specialised 3PL service providers in alternative transport modes enhances our network efficiency. Recognising the last-mile delivery challenge in India, our policies explore innovative solutions, including partnerships with local services and micro-warehousing strategies. The emphasis on adaptability and agility allows us to respond dynamically to market dynamics, embracing new transport modes for enhanced efficiency or reduced environmental impact. Continuous evaluation and improvement are ingrained in our policies, fostering a diversified and adaptable logistics framework that ensures efficient supply chain operations for our business. Warehousing strategies that alleviates the bottom-line To optimise our operations, we strategically position warehouses for proximity to major consumption centers, minimising transportation costs and reducing delivery times across India. Leveraging technology, we implement warehouse management systems and plan to introduce barcode systems for enhanced accuracy. Embracing lean principles, we focus on continuous improvement, eliminating non-value-added activities, and maintaining efficient layouts. Anticipating seasonal or peak demand, we implement inventory strategies for optimal preparation without excess costs during quieter periods. Collaboration with 3PLs allows scalability and access to specialised facilities. Utilising data analytics, we continuously analyse warehouse efficiency, facilitating data-driven decisions for ongoing process improvements. Through these strategies, we aim for efficient, agile, and customer-centric operations, ensuring timely product delivery across India while optimising costs and resources. Distinct capabilities with a strategic Innovation Approach Maximising the efficiency of our logistics and backend operations involves a multifaceted approach focussed on continuous improvement and innovation. Leveraging advanced analytics, we prioritise accurate demand forecasting for optimised inventory levels, balancing meeting customer demands with minimising excess stock. Building strong relationships with suppliers and implementing lean supply chain principles help in reducing lead times, cutting costs, and maintaining a responsive supply chain. Constantly exploring and integrating emerging technologies such as AI and Bar Coding enhances visibility and transparency across the supply chain. Sustainability initiatives, including eco-friendly packaging and optimised delivery routes, align with our commitment to environmental responsibility. Regular assessments and adaptation to market changes, whether regulatory shifts or consumer preferences, ensure operational agility. Our ultimate goal is to create a responsive, cost-effective, and sustainable supply chain that meets customer demands across diverse cities. Megatrends changing the face of Supply Chain Executives In the dynamic landscape of India's supply chain and logistics, several pivotal megatrends are set to reshape the roles of managers in these domains. Technology integration, including AI and machine learning, will revolutionise operations, requiring managers to harness these tools for enhanced visibility and data-driven decision-making. Building resilience against disruptions and diversifying sourcing channels will be imperative. Leveraging data analytics for predictive insights will be essential for optimising inventory and enhancing overall efficiency. Collaborative partnerships across the supply chain ecosystem will strengthen, necessitating closer ties with suppliers, distributors, and technology providers. Adapting to evolving regulations, upskilling the workforce for increased automation, and prioritising customer-centric logistics experiences are paramount. Striking the right balance between globalisation benefits and localised strategies will be a key challenge. Managers who adeptly navigate and capitalise on these megatrends will build agile, sustainable, and technologically advanced operations, meeting the evolving demands of the market. Advice for budding professionals To young supply chain professionals entering the industry in India, here's some invaluable advices for navigating the evolving landscape. Embrace continuous learning by staying updated on technological advancements and industry trends, and seek certifications and mentorship. Develop a holistic understanding of the supply chain spectrum, acknowledging the interconnections between procurement, logistics, operations, and customer relations. Cultivate adaptability and flexibility to navigate the fast-paced and disruptive nature of the industry. Focus on data literacy, particularly proficiency in analytics tools like Excel, for making informed decisions. Hone communication and collaboration skills to effectively coordinate with diverse teams and stakeholders. Embrace ethical and sustainable practices, recognising their growing importance in supply chains. Lastly, foster a problem-solving mindset, as the ability to address challenges efficiently is highly valued in the dynamic field of supply chain management.

Delmos Aviation transports second lot of oxygen concentrators from Russia for Rajasthan government

Delmos Aviation has transported the second lot of 300 units of oxygen concentrators from Russia to New Delhi for the Rajasthan state government. The consignment was airborne on an Aeroflot A333 aircraft (SU 232) and reached at 10:10 AM in New Delhi. The shipments were shipped by road and sent back to Swasthya Bhawan, Jaipur, Rajasthan Medical Services Corporation (RMSCL). RMSCL obtained oxygen concentrators from Russian companies together with Delmos Aviation. Delmos Aviation is procuring, transporting and supplying COVID-relied materials to the Rajasthan Medical Services Corporation with the mandate signed with the Rajasthan Government. There will shortly be two consignments with the remaining 800 oxygen concentrators. "We are ready to assist governments in the provision and delivery of any type of essential medical supplies, oxygen concentration and equipment as quickly as possible," said Dr Naveen Rao, Director, Delmos Aviation. "At this juncture, time-based deliveries are paramount. We can handle the airlift and deliver the shipment to the last point." In four lots, 100, 300, 450 and 400 units, a total of 1250 oxygen concentrations are ordered and continue to reach New Delhi in batches of shipments. On 14 and 16 May 2021, the remaining lots will arrive. Oxygen concentrators of Single flowmeter (0.5-10LPM Adjustable) and double flowmeter (0-5LPM Adjustable) are included in the delivery. The models are JAY-10A & LFY-I-5A. "The government of Rajasthan is working hard in this raging second wave of the pandemic to provide basic medical equipment to head Minister Ashok Gehlot and Minister of Health, Raghu Sharma. The government plans to import 1250 oxygen concentrators from Moscow, Russia, in partnership with Delmos Aviation, as part of its efforts to enhance medical oxygen in the state," said a spokesperson.

Challenge Group strengthens fleet with new Boeing 747-400F to meet growing global demand

Challenge Group unveiled its newest Boeing 747-400 production freighter registered under its Belgian AOC. With this acquisition, Challenge Group’s fleet now consists of 10 state-of-the-art aircraft, including six Boeing 747-400F and four Boeing 767-300F freighters, trebling its fleet in less than three years. This expansion positions the company to meet increasing customer demand with greater efficiency and flexibility. The new aircraft will significantly enhance Challenge Group’s capacity and frequency, addressing rising demand for perishable transportation out of Africa, e-commerce shipments from China, and transatlantic trade. Predominantly serving the e-commerce sector from China, the Boeing 747-400F will also support diverse industries and verticals with its versatile cargo capabilities. “The addition of the Boeing 747-400F is a pivotal step in Challenge Group’s fleet strategy,” said Or Zak, Chief Commercial Officer at Challenge Group. “It reinforces our ability to respond to the evolving demands of the air freight capacity while expanding our capability to serve new markets. This aircraft exemplifies our commitment to operational flexibility and providing additional solutions for our customers.” This expansion aligns with Challenge Group’s long-term strategy to grow its fleet and increase its market reach. By incorporating advanced freighters like the Boeing 747-400 production freighter, the company is well-positioned to deploy additional capacity as needed and strengthen its global network.

Average shipping container prices decline at ports of Los Angeles, Long Beach, logjam still unabated

Container xChange, the world’s leading tech company for container trading and leasing published container prices and availability data across the key ports of the United States. As majority of ports at the United States struggle to process the soaring flow of inbound containers, the average shipping container prices fell in the month of October by an average of 10% at the ports of LA, LB and more recently the port of Savannah too. The ports in the US are showing very high Container availability Index (CAx) values consistently as compared to the year 2020 and 2019 (pre-pandemic times). On a global scale, about 78 ports recorded CAx values higher than 0.50 (the value of 0.50 represents the ideal balance of inbound and outbound containers). As per the data, the average prices for 40 ft High cube containers have dropped by 10.7% from US$4863 to US$4342 from the month of August to November at the port of Long Beach. At the port of Los Angeles, a 20 ft dry container costs US$1850 and a 40 High cube costs around US$4342. The table below shows the decline in the average prices for a forty ft high cube container since the month of August this year at the Los Angeles port. Overall, the average one-way container leasing pickup charges on China to United States stretch have also slashed after it peaked in the month of September from US$2810 to US$1760 in October. Looking at the inbound/outbound container data by Container xChange, CAx values that are consistently above 0.70 indicate that these ports have been importing an increasing number of containers for a long period and the exports are impacted due to prevailing supply-chain factors. Particularly the port of Long Beach and Los Angeles have consistently shown CAx values higher than 0.80 since the beginning of the year which shows the catastrophic problem of higher inbound containers at these ports. The situation is similar at ports like Oakland, Seattle, Tacoma, and other ports in the US West Coast. The container availability index (CAx) at the port of Long Beach is 0.88 this week, which is the highest since the year 2019. The CAx values stood at 0.67 in 2019 and at 0.68 in 2020. The higher CAx values indicate that in proportion to the inbound containers, outbound containers are much higher. The gap is at its peak at the port. The port of Oakland, for instance, showed up a general CAx values between a range of 0.36 to a maximum of 0.65 at a given week throughout the year 2020, which is somewhere in the range of 0.70 to 0.96 at any given week in the year 2021. “The United States being an import destination of containers, has witnessed extraordinary number of vessels this year as the demand grew exponentially, especially in the north America region. This has crippled the supply chain because the ports and the supporting ecosystem has not been prepared adequately. We need measures to collectively improve the situation at these ports, which has had a domino effect on other ports and infact on the global supply chain. As per our forecast, the container prices will level off at a new normal that will be atleast 2X of the pre-pandemic cost by the end of next year 2022,” said Dr Johannes Schlingmeier, CEO and co-founder of Container xChange. Even the ports in the US East Coast like the port of Savannah, have experienced dip in the average prices for containers. A 40 feet high cube container costs US$4607 in November while it costed US$5224 in September, almost a dip of 11-12%. At the port of Savannah, as of week 47, the CAx stands at 0.94 which was 0.81 in 2020 and 0.84 in the year 2019 during the same week. Clearly, the port. Is handling very high number of inbound containers this year as compared to the past two years.