Navigating the Logistics Landscape of 2026
The logistics landscape of 2026 begins with shifting trade patterns and a more uncertain global environment. Geopolitical developments in the Middle East continue to affect traffic flows through the Suez Canal and the area around Hormuz, creating disruptions that ripple through global container transport. At the same time, cargo owners are seeking new markets and alternative routes as established flows are challenged.
The Port of Helsingborg closely follows these developments through ongoing dialogue with customers and shipping lines. Customer meetings early in the year confirm that while overall volumes may not necessarily decline, flows are shifting. This requires the port to be well prepared to adjust plans, prioritise resources and remain reliable even when market conditions are uncertain.
“We see that the global situation in the Middle East and the developments around Hormuz are influencing the entire container chain. Flows will change. For the Port of Helsingborg, it is important to be ready to support customers with new solutions when markets move,” says Sune Norup Christensen, CCO at the Port of Helsingborg.
The Port Responds to a Changing Market
The port’s operational approach is built on clear routines, customer proximity and high availability in daily operations. Standardised methods, data driven planning and real time resource management create the conditions needed to handle volume fluctuations while maintaining consistent quality.
“Our recent customer meetings confirm that preparedness for adjustment is essential, and that the right inland connections and strong operational capability to manage volume fluctuations matter now more than ever. The Port of Helsingborg has a solution minded operational culture that enables us to adapt plans and resources when flows change. It is a strength we will continue to develop,” says Sune Norup Christensen.
The port’s stable performance in berth productivity, road and rail flows in and out of the terminal, and its handling of reefer containers all contribute to maintaining operational reliability. These core areas remain central to the port’s everyday work and ongoing development.
“The Port of Helsingborg continues to deliver strong results in productivity, landside flows and reefer handling. This creates stability for our customers at a time when global supply chains are undergoing significant shifts,” says Sune Norup Christensen.
Energy Market Impact on Daily Operations
Rapid developments in the energy market have significantly affected the port’s cost structure. Rising prices of HVO100, the renewable fuel powering much of the port’s equipment fleet, have had a major impact. To safeguard operational reliability and maintain high service quality, the Port of Helsingborg has introduced a temporary energy surcharge based on actual terminal energy consumption. The model is transparent and follows the price of renewable fuel.
“It is an exceptional situation in the energy market. Through a transparent model for our temporary energy surcharge, we can maintain stable operations while continuing our transition towards more energy efficient solutions,” says Sune Norup Christensen.
Looking Ahead
The Port of Helsingborg enters 2026 with clear goals for developing operations and strengthening long term capacity. By further advancing digital tools, standardised processes and sustainable energy and operational solutions, the port continues to enhance its ability to deliver secure, efficient and sustainable cargo flows.
This is how the Port of Helsingborg approaches the logistics year of 2026, with one foot firmly in daily operations and the other in the port of the future.