HOT PORT NEWS from GAC

GAC has officially launched a new Less-than-Container Load (LCL) shipping service connecting the Port of Genoa in Italy to the Port of Jeddah in Saudi Arabia, effective April 25, 2026. This strategic maritime route enhances supply chain connectivity between European markets and the Middle East, offering seamless onward logistics to the GCC region. For merchant navy professionals, this expansion signifies increased cargo throughput and vessel turnaround activity, necessitating precise stowage planning for diverse LCL consignments across the Mediterranean and Red Sea corridors.

Operational compliance for this route remains strictly governed by the International Maritime Organization’s SOLAS Chapter VI, which mandates rigorous cargo securing and stability requirements for containerized goods. Vessels operating on this service must adhere to the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code, particularly when handling mixed LCL shipments that may contain hazardous materials. Furthermore, compliance departments must ensure that all documentation aligns with MARPOL Annex III regulations regarding the prevention of pollution by harmful substances carried by sea in packaged form.

This new service directly impacts the daily responsibilities of deck officers and masters tasked with complex cargo operations. These navigating officers must prioritize accurate weight distribution and segregation protocols to maintain vessel stability during transit. They must ensure that all LCL manifests are meticulously verified against stowage plans to prevent shifting during heavy weather in the Red Sea. Proactive monitoring of container integrity and strict adherence to port-specific loading procedures are essential for maintaining safety standards throughout the voyage.