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Scotland gains first direct China service

[ May 9, 2022   //   ]

KC Group Shipping, has announced the first direct container service between China and Scotland.

The new service is a partnership between the KC Group’s KC Liner Agencies division, DKT  Allseas and China Xpress.

With the maiden voyage due to arrive in Greenock on about 10 July, there will be three sailings per month in both directions, calling at Ningbo, Shezhen and Chittagong (Bangladesh) before heading for Liverpool and Greenock. Feeder services will operate to and from other ports in Asia.

KC Group Shipping managing director David Milne said: “The new service is one of the most significant developments in Scotland’s shipping industry for many years. We’ve analysed the marketplace and listened to our customers, and there is no doubt that the service will bring much-needed efficiencies to their supply chains.”

He said that the direct sailings will reduce the transit times by up to two weeks compared with feeder services times via continental Europe or southern UK ports. Transit times from China to Greenock are just over a month.

The route will be operated by six ships of about 1,600TEU. Equipment available includes 20’, 40’ high cube and megacube containers, along with 20’ and 40’ reefers.

David Milne continued: “I am encouraged that Scotland’s industries now have a solution to ensure commerce, products and trade in and out of Scotland, have an effective and competitive alternative. Early in our research stage, we spoke with some of the largest importers and exporters throughout Scotland. They clearly indicated an appetite for our direct container service to and from China. We have had tremendous engagement and support from our supply chain partners, who are excited to be on board.”

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