Maersk, Hapag-Lloyd launch new ocean shipping network

Shipping companies Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd have launch a new operational collaboration named Gemini Cooperation.

Maersk said the goal is to deliver a flexible and interconnected ocean network with schedule reliability above 90 per cent once fully phased in.

Around 340 vessels will be phased in and be a part of Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd's shared ocean network. The first sailings took place at the same time as the formal launch of the collaboration on Saturday, February 1, and more vessels will gradually sail on the new schedules.

"We are now ready to commence the phase-in of the new network," said Johan Sigsgaard, Chief Product Officer of Ocean at Maersk. "Over the last year, we have carefully planned this to ensure that all our customers experience a smooth transition into the new network. With its innovative design, we believe our customers will benefit from increased reliability, flexibility and more competitive products."

Maersk expects the transition period to last until late May, with vessels phasing into the new network, and out of the expiring agreements that Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd have with other carriers. June will be the first full month in which the network is fully phased in with all vessels sailing on Gemini schedules.

Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd's shared network covers East/West trades and will consist of 29 ocean mainliner services supported by an extensive network of 28 intraregional shuttle services.