According to the company’s website news release on February 6, 2023, in light of the earthquake that sadly hit Türkiye and Syria on the morning of Monday 6 February 2023, A.P. Moller – Maersk would like to inform customers of the subsequent impact on their operations and services.
Such was the magnitude of the earthquake that there has been significant damage to logistics and transport infrastructure around the Pazarcik, Kahramanmaras, epicentre, including at the Port of Iskenderun.
The port has unfortunately been subject to severe structural damage, leading to a complete stop of all operations until further notice. Roads have also been heavily affected, and at this time vendors are not moving any trucks in and around the area.
Given the situation at Iskenderun, Maersk will need to perform a change of destination for all bookings bound for the port or already on the water. Maersk is currently planning to divert containers to nearby hubs within operational feasibility or hold at transhipment ports - including Port of Mersin and Port Said. If your cargo is impacted by the contingency measures, Maersk will reach out to you directly to discuss options as soon as possible.
All booking cancellations, amendments and changes of destination will be free of charge* for Iskenderun and Mersin bookings throughout the month of February.
It is not yet clear when the Port of Iskenderun will see a return to normal operations, but the company will keep you informed as soon as Maersk knows more and continue to update company’s relief packages in line with customer needs – full details and terms will be communicated when finalised.
The company thank you for your patience and understanding. Rest assured Maersk will do everything to minimise the impact on the customers and their supply chains.
Maersk would also like to extend its deepest sympathies to those affected by the disaster. Our thoughts are with you during this very difficult time.
Should you have any questions at all, please don’t hesitate to contact the company. Maersk has set up a dedicated emergency hotline for customers on (+90) 0 216 666 51 48.
*terms apply and will be communicated as soon as possible
