Post-Panamax-Schiffe

Post Panamax

In the world of shipping vessels, ship sizes are of great importance, if not the most important. Post Panamax are ships that exceed the dimensions of the original Panama Canal locks. These vessels were the industry's response to the expansion of the global trade network and the growth in demand among the world's largest carriers.

The background to the emergence of Post Panamax vessels is very simple: there was a need to transport more cargo in one trip. The predecessor ships sometimes ceased to be suitable for performing logistics functions. The new vessels increased in both width and length. Accordingly, they were able to take more containers at one time. Obviously, this was good news for logistics companies, which were able to save time and money.

Distinctive Features of Post Panamax Vessels

Such vessels have a width that exceeds 32.31 meters. For reference: this is a very impressive figure, which has had a positive impact on the throughput of logistics chains. The length and depth of the ships have also been increased. Consequently, the vessels have gained the ability to use routes where deep-water areas prevail.

More impressive sizes require a more responsible and attentive approach to logistics planning. Ports that work with Post Panamax are required to have an improved, state-of-the-art infrastructure. Otherwise, they simply will not be able to cope with their task. In practice, such changes have resulted in the need to invest in upgrading cranes and other port equipment.

Impact on Global Logistics

The creators of these ships have achieved what they wanted: the new models have reduced the cost of delivery per unit of goods, products. This was good news for manufacturers, logisticians, and end-users.

An important stage in the development of global logistics was the expansion of the Panama Canal, which took place in 2016. This development marked a new era for Post Panamax vessels.

Nuances associated with Post Panamax Vessels

Of course, nothing is perfect. The increased size of the ships has closed their path to certain world ports. They do not have the appropriate infrastructure. Consequently, logistics specialists have to plan routes more carefully, taking into account the existing restrictions. Post Panamax also raised questions from an environmental point of view, since the larger the ship, the more fuel it consumes.