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Supply Chain Glossary
Trade lane
Transit time
Transloading
Transportation Management System (TMS)
Transportation lead time
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Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit (TEU)
Ultra Large Container Vessels (ULCVs)
Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI)
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Vessel
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Blank sailing

What is a Blank Sailing?

Blank sailing is a term used in the shipping and logistics industry to describe the situation when a shipping line cancels a scheduled port call or an entire voyage. This can happen for various reasons, such as low demand for shipping services, operational issues, or unforeseen circumstances like bad weather or port congestion.

Causes of Blank Sailings

Blank sailings can occur due to several reasons, including:

  • Low Demand: When there is insufficient demand for shipping services, carriers may cancel sailings to avoid operating at a loss. This helps maintain freight rates and reduces the costs associated with running underutilized vessels.
  • Operational Issues: Mechanical problems with vessels, labor strikes, or issues at ports can force shipping lines to cancel scheduled sailings. These operational disruptions require immediate attention and often lead to blank sailings.
  • Weather Conditions: Severe weather, such as storms or hurricanes, can make it unsafe for vessels to sail. To ensure the safety of the crew and cargo, shipping lines may cancel voyages or skip stops during such conditions.
  • Port Congestion: When ports are congested, vessels may face significant delays. To manage schedules and avoid further delays, shipping lines may opt to cancel some sailings.
  • Schedule Adjustments: Shipping lines may adjust schedules to align with new service patterns, seasonal demand fluctuations, or route changes, leading to the cancellation of some sailings.

Impact of Blank Sailings on the Supply Chain

For supply chain and logistics professionals, blank sailings can present significant challenges. These cancellations can lead to delays in the delivery of goods, disrupting production schedules and inventory management. To mitigate the impact, professionals often need to quickly find alternative shipping solutions, adjust timelines, or communicate with stakeholders about potential delays.

How to Manage Blank Sailings

Effective management of blank sailings involves proactive planning and communication. Supply chain professionals can mitigate risks by:

  • Diversifying Shipping Options: Working with multiple carriers or routes to avoid reliance on a single shipping line.
  • Real-Time Tracking: Using advanced tracking systems (like Beacon) to monitor shipments and receive early notifications of any disruptions.
  • Contingency Planning: Developing contingency plans that outline alternative shipping methods and backup suppliers.