14NOV2019 - NEWS - IMO 2020: higher bunker surcharges arrive

In the run up to the 2020 sulphur cap, shippers and forwarders are “starting to get their cheque-books out,” according to consultancy Drewry, to help ocean carriers cover the additional cost of cleaner, low-sulphur fuel

Drewry recommends that shippers and forwarders use the average October-November low-sulphur price to set new BAF charges applicable from 1 January 2020.

Several carriers have announced transitional or “emergency” bunker charges applicable from 1 December 2019. However, these will apply only to spot rates and to contracts of less than three months, Drewry noted