MSC has ordered 20 24,000-TEU ultra-large container ships from shipyard partner Hengli Heavy, according to industry reports. Linerlytica data shows the order has lifted the global container ship orderbook to 46.5% of the existing fleet, the highest level since 2009.
What Happened
The order covers 20 vessels of 24,000 TEU each, placed by MSC with Hengli Heavy. MSC is among the world's largest liner operators by capacity, and Hengli Heavy is its shipyard partner.
According to Linerlytica, the order brings the total backlog of new container ships to 46.5% of the current fleet, the highest since 2009. The orderbook refers to contracted capacity not yet delivered, typically entering service over the coming years.
Background
Liner operators have continued to order large vessels in recent years to lower unit costs and renew fleets. With the orderbook at 46.5% of existing capacity, new deliveries are expected to remain elevated in the years ahead, keeping supply-side dynamics in focus.
The report also noted that shippers are feeling pressure on eastbound trans-Pacific cargo movements, citing stricter requirements from US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and reduced leverage in negotiations with ocean carriers.
Impact on Shippers
On transit times, the new order will not change near-term capacity immediately, as deliveries take time and short-term space supply still depends on the existing fleet and service schedules. On costs, a high orderbook points to potential capacity growth over the medium term, but actual rates remain subject to cargo volumes, service adjustments and port efficiency, so linear conclusions should be avoided. On customs clearance, the report's mention of stricter CBP requirements means exporters to the US should be more careful about documentation compliance and declaration accuracy.
Recommendations
Shippers are advised to monitor carrier capacity deployment and service adjustments, and to secure space in advance based on their own volumes. For US-bound cargo, verify the consistency of declared product names, values and documents, and allow extra time for customs clearance. When budgeting costs, factor in rate volatility and possible surcharges rather than relying on a single rate indicator.