Boxship owners could slowsteam more ships and carry out more transhipment to combat higher costs from IMO 2020 regulation, according to shipping consultancy Drewry.
The company said that lines' actions will depend on how successful they are at implementing fuel surcharges.
"One potential side-effect from the new regulations could be greater slow-steaming and use of transhipment," it added.
"The logic being that as ships' sailing speed is reduced and round voyages are extended carriers will drop ports from rotations to ensure that transit times to key points remain competitive.
