Following the national strike earlier this week, ongoing pilot actions continue to restrict vessel movements at Antwerp and Zeebrugge. Operations remain below normal capacity, with congestion and backlog clearance expected to take several days.

The ports of Antwerp and Zeebrugge continue to face disruption due to ongoing go-slow action by unionised pilots. Despite the end of the nationwide strike on 15 October, pilot availability remains limited, slowing the restart of normal port operations.

As of 16 October, the Port of Antwerp is operating at roughly 70% of normal capacity, with pilots maintaining a “maximum rest” action that restricts vessel scheduling between 17:00 and 08:00. While all locks, bridges, and towage services are fully operational, congestion persists on the Scheldt, with 60 outbound and 128 inbound vessels currently awaiting movement.

At Zeebrugge, the go-slow action by coastal pilots continues, though its impact has so far been less severe. Authorities expect earlier delays to be cleared by late afternoon today.

The pilot actions are expected to continue until Sunday, after which gradual improvement is anticipated. However, clearing the accumulated backlog is likely to take several more days.

Woodland Group is continuing to closely monitor the situation and will provide further updates on vessel ETAs, schedules, and operational impacts as new information becomes available.

Businesses importing or exporting via Antwerp or Zeebrugge are advised to review shipment schedules, account for possible delays, and liaise with their Woodland representative for tailored logistics planning and support.

Maritime traffic to and from Antwerp will be suspended from the evening of 13 October until the morning of 15 October due to ongoing pilot action and a planned national strike.

The ongoing work-to-rule action by Flemish pilots, which began on 5 October, continues to impact vessel movements at the ports of Antwerp and Zeebrugge. In addition, a national strike day planned for Tuesday, 14 October, is expected to cause further disruption across the Antwerp-Bruges port area.

From 19:30 on Monday, 13 October, all maritime traffic to and from Antwerp, including inland navigation, will be suspended until 07:30 on Wednesday, 15 October due to union action at the Zandvliet Traffic Control Centre.

Preparations for the suspension began on Monday afternoon, with inbound and outbound vessel movements being gradually halted. During this period, no vessels will be able to pass through the locks towards the Scheldt, and departure clearances are being adjusted accordingly.

Further details are expected as authorities assess the impact on port services, including the operation of bridges, locks, and towing.

Woodland Group continues to closely monitor the evolving situation and will share updates on vessel schedules, ETAs, and operational impacts as soon as new information becomes available.

For guidance or support in managing shipments during this disruption, please contact your Woodland Group representative.

An indefinite work-to-rule strike action by pilots and traffic controllers began on 5 October, impacting shipping operations at the ports of Antwerp and Zeebrugge.

Since Sunday, 5 October, an indefinite labour strike action by traffic controllers and harbour pilots has been affecting operations at the ports of Antwerp and Zeebrugge. The action is in protest against federal pension reforms, with assignments currently restricted to office hours (08:00–17:00) and vessels piloted no earlier than 10:00. Combined with mandatory rest periods, this has caused significant disruption to shipping movements.

Current operational impact

• Some vessels are unable to enter or leave Antwerp, affecting import container handling.
• Export container deliveries continue as usual.
• Yard congestion may be exacerbated, potentially leading to extended delays.

Latest vessel status (as of 9 October 2025):

• Antwerp: 65 vessels without schedules, 27 vessels delayed
• Zeebrugge: 7 vessels delayed

The situation remains fluid. Woodland Group is closely monitoring developments and will provide updates on ETAs and operational impacts as soon as new information becomes available.

Businesses importing or exporting via Antwerp or Zeebrugge should review schedules, factor in potential delays, and work with Woodland representatives to plan alternative arrangements where possible.

For tailored advice and support, please contact your Woodland Group representative.