Suez Canal route return reduces India-Savannah transit times

Shipping lines have begun testing a return to the Suez Canal route for cargo traveling from India to the U.S. East Coast, reducing transit times to the Port of Savannah by approximately 10 to 14 days. This shift serves as an alternative to the longer detour around the Cape of Good Hope, which became necessary in late 2023 due to security threats and missile attacks in the Red Sea.

The Georgia Ports Authority (GPA) noted that the improved supply chain velocity allows for faster inventory fulfillment and lower carrying costs for cargo owners. Specifically, Maersk has transitioned its MECL service back to the Suez Canal, cutting the transit time from Nhava Sheva, India, to Savannah to 28 days. Additionally, CMA CGM is in the process of returning its INDAMEX service via the Suez, which is expected to reduce transit times by five days and require two fewer vessels to maintain weekly frequency.

While the return to the Suez route offers significant logistical and economic advantages, shipping lines continue to monitor regional security conditions closely as they reassess operational stability in the corridor.