Members on the ground have updated IAM on the evolving situation after twin earthquakes struck northern Venezuela, causing widespread destruction primarily in the Greater Caracas area and the state of La Guaira.
After the acting president declared a state of emergency, moving operations are fully suspended across the affected region. A government order has halted all non-essential commercial activity nationwide, including relocation services, with only critical sectors such as food supply, fuel, electricity, and communications permitted to operate.
For ocean freight shipments, the Port of La Guaira has suspended cargo operations. The area has been declared a disaster zone, and structural assessments are ongoing. Shipping lines are currently re-routing vessels to Puerto Cabello. Alternative gateways operating normally: Puerto Cabello, Maracaibo, and Guanta ports are open and functioning. All import and export services routed through Caracas and La Guaira are currently suspended.
Airfreight is also significantly impacted. Simón Bolívar International Airport is closed until further notice after the runway sustained significant damage and the terminal structure suffered severe structural damage. Some international carriers are diverting medium-sized aircraft to Valencia, Barquisimeto, and Maracaibo, though runway limitations at those airports preclude large widebody operations, including flights from Europe.
IAM extends its deepest sympathies to all those affected by this tragedy.
IAM Member Impact: Members with shipments in transit should contact their Venezuelan partners directly to assess contingency routing options. IAM will continue to relay updates as the situation develops.
IAM Member Contributions: Equixpress, AMP Movers International, MI Global.