In light of the earthquake that sadly hit Turkey and Syria on the morning of Monday 6 February 2023, A.P. Moller – Maersk would like to inform customers of the subsequent impact on their operations and services.
Such was the magnitude of the earthquake that there has been significant damage to logistics and transport infrastructure around the Pazarcik, Kahramanmaras, epicentre, including at the Port of Iskenderun.
The port has unfortunately been subject to severe structural damage, leading to a complete stop of all operations until further notice. Roads have also been heavily affected, and at this time vendors are not moving any trucks in and around the area.
Given the situation at Iskenderun, Maersk state that they will need to perform a change of destination for all bookings bound for the port or already on the water. They are currently planning to divert containers to nearby hubs within operational feasibility or hold at transhipment ports - including Port of Mersin and Port Said.
All booking cancellations, amendments and changes of destination will be free of charge* for Iskenderun and Mersin bookings throughout the month of February.
It is not yet clear when the Port of Iskenderun will see a return to normal operations, but full details and terms will be communicated when finalised.
Maersk would also like to extend its deepest sympathies to those affected by the disaster, saying: "Our thoughts are with you during this very difficult time."
Maersk have set up a dedicated emergency hotline for customers on (+90) 0 216 666 51 48.
*terms apply and will be communicated as soon as possible