CMA CGM Launches Early Container Return Incentive

CMA CGM has announced plans to implement an industry-first incentive program designed to encourage the early return of empty containers and help exporters get the equipment needed.

The program, which launches today to U.S. customers, gives customers who return empty containers early a $300 credit per dry container to either the FMS terminal in Los Angeles or one of four CMA CGM return locations across the country (Chicago, IL; Dallas, TX; Kansas City, KS; and Memphis, TN).

Exporters have been hit particularly hard by challenges from severe congestion throughout the North American supply chain, thanks in part to a lack of equipment that makes it more difficult to get their goods to market in a timely manner.

The 60-day incentive program is expected to result in approximately 43,000 dry containers being put back into circulation within 4 days of pickup, helping to ensure U.S. exporters have greater access to equipment.

“CMA CGM is committed to doing everything we can to increase the fluidity and velocity of America’s supply chain,” said Ed Aldridge, President of CMA CGM and APL North America. “Our new program will result in an incentive credit for our importers, improve equipment availability for our exporters and expedite the flow of goods into and out of America’s heartland. It’s truly a win-win for everyone.”

Gene Seroka, Executive Director of the Port of Los Angeles, said, “With this incentive program, the CMA CGM Group is facilitating a more robust flow of goods through the Port of Los Angeles and helping U.S. exporters get their product to destinations around the globe more quickly. CMA CGM has been a reliable partner to the Port of Los Angeles and a driving force for change throughout the spike in demand.”

CMA CGM said a seperate program to encourage early pickup of containers has resulted in a 73% decrease in the number of CMA CGM containers dwelling over 9 days in Southern California.

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