Record number of container ships changing course - What does this mean for the steel and metal market?
Shipping routes that once guaranteed predictable lead times have changed. Due to a combination of US import tariffs and strategic shifts in global container traffic, around 20% of container ships are now rerouting or canceling their journeys altogether.
This doesn’t just affect major global players. Companies that rely on steel, metal or industrial wire—including stainless steel wire and galvanized wire—are already feeling the impact: longer lead times, potential rising costs, and a market where flexibility is becoming more essential than ever.
The impact on the European steel and metal market
Changes in global container traffic are having a direct effect on the European steel and metal industry. Rerouted or canceled shipping lines mean longer transit times and volatile transport costs. At the same time, manufacturers from countries like China—losing access to US markets due to high tariffs—are increasingly shifting their focus to Europe.
This is creating greater supply pressure and unpredictable price fluctuations. The combination of logistics disruptions and changing trade flows is making it more difficult for European businesses to predict lead times, availability, and costs.
The risks for companies using industrial wire
For companies that process steel, metal or industrial wire—including stainless steel wire and galvanized wire—the current situation brings very real risks. Deliveries that were once predictable have become harder to schedule. This makes production planning more complex and can lead to downtime or expensive last-minute solutions.
Price fluctuations and volatile transport costs are also putting pressure on margins. Uncertainty around both material availability and final costs means flexibility and forward planning are now more critical than ever.
How Metalwire is responding
As an industrial wire supplier, we understand better than anyone how shifting lead times and changing availability can impact your production planning. That’s why we look beyond your next order.
We invest continuously in global sourcing and closely monitor the logistics market. More importantly, we help you stay flexible. Through smart stock solutions—including inventory management tailored to your specific needs—we help you spread risk without the need to invest in additional storage or carry extra costs yourself.
That way, your production keeps moving—even when the market doesn’t.
Why work with Metalwire?
Holding additional stock to offset delivery risks might seem simple in theory but involves significant costs and logistical challenges in practice. Not every business has the space or flexibility to manage this independently.
That’s why we offer solutions that go beyond standard delivery. We can hold stock on your behalf, tailored to your production requirements and call-off schedules. This includes industrial wire, stainless steel wire and galvanized wire. You avoid capital-intensive storage investments while maintaining availability when it matters most.
You’ll also benefit from our real-time market insights and personalized advice. This ensures you are not only prepared for current disruptions but also able to respond flexibly to future changes.
Planning ahead starts today
The world is changing—and the market is changing with it. But you don’t have to wait until things go wrong. At Metalwire, your partner in industrial wire, we prefer to think ahead. Together, we’ll find solutions that fit your situation—whether you need delivery certainty, inventory management, or strategic planning.
Want to know how we can reduce your risks and increase your flexibility? Feel free to contact our specialists. We’ll be happy to advise you.
We’ll be happy to advise you
