Following the 2008-09 global financial crisis and recession, ocean carriers removed capacity from key tradelanes in response to diminished levels of utilization and profitability. This trend, which persisted through 2010 despite a major rebound in trade, led to service disruptions and rising ocean freight rates. Mercator International was engaged by one of North America’s largest retailers, to help them develop a strategy to manage ocean carrier negotiations and contract terms. Ultimately, through the negotiation process, clear standards of performance for both parties were established, and high service levels returned.
