The performance analysis of the terminals at the Antwerp and Zeebrugge ports in Belgium over the past 12 months, concerning vessels over 5000 TEU, provides important data on vessel waiting times. This analysis includes 2731 terminal visits from 647 different vessels and clearly indicates the close competition between these two ports.
Waiting Time Review at Antwerp and Zeebrugge Ports
From January to September 2026, the Port of Antwerp recorded an average waiting time of 22.5 hours, while the Port of Zeebrugge recorded an average of 23.4 hours. These figures reflect the close performance of these two ports, and it cannot be simply claimed that one is significantly better than the other.
Read more: US and Iran negotiations to end the Hormuz deadlock resumed
However, in July, the Port of Zeebrugge faced specific challenges with an increase in waiting time to 42.6 hours. This figure was nearly double the waiting time in June (26.6 hours) and the highest recorded for both ports during this period. In the same month, the Port of Antwerp operated close to its annual average with an average of 22.2 hours.
Terminal Data Analysis and Its Implications
More detailed analyses indicate that the increase in waiting time at the Port of Zeebrugge is related to two specific terminals, namely the Antwerp Gateway DP World terminal and the MSC PSA Delwaidedok terminal, which recorded average waiting times of 78 to 79 hours, respectively. In contrast, the Zeebrugge terminal had an average waiting time of only 20.7 hours.
The data also show that a number of specific visits were responsible for a significant portion of the waiting time this month. For example, some vessels recorded waiting times exceeding 150 hours, with one vessel reaching 245 hours. This information clearly indicates specific challenges at the mentioned terminals and could serve as a starting point for constructive discussions in future negotiations.
Utilizing independent data in SLA negotiations and discussions can help reshape the dialogue. Instead of each party citing their own records, both parties can discuss based on similar data related to actual visits. This could help reduce disputes and facilitate negotiations.
Read more: Reduction of gas transmission capacity at the Mermento and Grand Cheniere ANR compressor stations · Software necessities pointed out by the CEO of Qualtrics
