IAMTrusted member DASA International Movers has warned members of further delays and a likely freeze on packing dates in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Iraq, as U.S. Central Command begins to enforce a blockade of all Iranian ports and coastal areas effective today.
In an update to IAM today (April 13), DASA Chief Executive Officer Craig Reilly explained that the blockade targets any vessel touching Iranian ports or loading Iranian cargo. In addition, any ship known or suspected to have paid a toll to pass through the Strait of Hormuz is now at high risk of inspection, diversion, or detention under the new blockade rules. Ships moving solely between non-Iranian ports could still be allowed through Hormuz.
Of specific concern to the international moving industry, DASA advises:
Ocean Freight
Jeddah has hit 12-day delays and is at critical saturation with further pressure expected. DASA warned members not to route new bookings through Jeddah and to use the Dammam land bridge for Saudi-bound cargo from UAE or Oman. The Port of Khor Fakkan is experiencing 12-day delays, while the Port of Salalah has continued its positive trend with delays at nine days, and the container terminal is fully operational. Hamad Port in Qatar remains the most fluid entry point for upper Gulf cargo within the 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daylight operating window.
War risk premiums and surcharges are increasing, with industry sources suggesting several hundred dollars per container in addition to Red Sea surcharges. Members should update their cost models with a validity of no more than 48 hours.
Air Freight
Dubai enters Day 15 of the Emirates SkyCargo restoration period with no confirmed timeline for full-service return. Iraq, Bahrain, and Kuwait airspace remain closed. Regional capacity is 60% to 70% of normal, with surcharges up to 70% above the pre-conflict baseline. Muscat remains the primary air bridge for Bahrain and Kuwait cargo.
IAM Member Impact: A 21-day buffer remains in effect. Maintain frozen packing dates for Bahrain, Kuwait, and Iraq assignments. U.S. consular and visa services remain suspended across the GCC with no confirmed resumption date. For Qatar-bound relocation and freight, maritime bookings through Hamad Port should be the primary choice. Saudi-bound household goods should be routed via the Dammam land bridge, avoiding Jeddah for new bookings. For urgent cargo into Bahrain and Kuwait, Muscat should be the primary air bridge.
Readers can view the full update here.