IAM member companies in Israel and Iran have reported that the moving and relocation industry is slowly recovering in both countries following the recent ceasefire.
With the widest number of members in the industry in Iran and Israel, IAM reached out to each of those companies to provide the latest news and information “on the ground” for the benefit of IAM members and their clients.
In Iran, Unipack S.A. reported that following a 12-day period when almost all activities ceased, sea freight operations are slowly returning to normal but that all transportation costs have increased by 25-30%. Iran’s largest port is the Shahid Rajaee Port, also known as Bandar Abbas Port, which is located on the Strait of Hormuz in the western part of the country. “Ports continue to operate, but clearance and shipping processes are facing delays,” said Chief Executive Officer of Unipack, Fred Badalian. The company said that airfreight is still not possible and that diplomatic shipments have almost completely stopped because embassies are closed.
In Israel, A. Univers Transit, Ocean Relocation, Infinity Pack & Ship, and Teamnet, all reported that the major Israeli sea ports of Haifa and Ashdod are operational, with some limitations. All major carriers are said to be accepting bookings again, although war risk and emergency surcharges have been implemented by many shipping lines. In terms of air freight shipments, Israeli members report that Ben Gurion International Airport is seeing a return of international carriers, but that capacity remains limited. All reported a backlog of pending air shipments and the industry should expect booking delays for new household goods moves. Air cargo terminals have extended their working hours and are operating at full capacity. All members in Israel confirmed that local origin and destination services are now operating normally.
Members are encouraged to reach out to their preferred IAM partner in Iran and Israel for further updates.