 |
| Liverpool Port |
Fee Hike Announced at Port of Liverpool Amid Rising Operational Costs
The Port of Liverpool, operated by Peel Ports, will increase its steel handling and storage fees starting April 1, 2025. The fee adjustments come in response to a 10% rise in operational expenses, inflationary pressures, and investments in expanding steel storage capacity.
Impact on Traders and Competitive Rates
According to sources surveyed by Argus, storage rates for steel coil will rise by 10-20%, depending on the volume handled. Larger trading firms with higher volumes will face a 10% increase, while smaller traders, already paying higher rates, will see a 20% hike. Some traders could end up paying over £9 per ton for coil handling, significantly more than competitors like the Port of Bristol (£7/t) and Newport.
Additionally, Liverpool’s storage fees will now include a £1/t weekly quay rental charge after four weeks of free storage, a shorter grace period compared to other ports offering up to eight weeks of free storage.
Investments and Sustainability Goals
Peel Ports highlighted its commitment to sustainability and infrastructure improvements, citing recent investments in two new indoor storage sheds dedicated to steel and metals. These additions complement the port's existing sheds, nine and ten.
The Port of Liverpool spokesperson commented, “As a responsible business, we aim to provide competitive rates that enable reinvestment in our facilities. Our charges reflect the multiple pressures we face, including higher inflation and fiscal changes such as National Insurance, business rates, and vehicle taxes.”
Despite these improvements, the fee hikes arrive during a period of depressed margins across the steel supply chain, further straining smaller traders and new entrants.
