TIR steps in with road alternatives to Red Sea

Amid the ongoing Red Sea crisis, major logistics operators have opted for the TIR system to ensure that goods flow smoothly between East Asia, the Middle East and Europe.

In recent weeks, major transport companies have bypassed the Red Sea by opting for ground alternatives through the Middle East and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region - rather than going around the southern tip of Africa. With these strategic shifts in transport corridors, operators have increased the value of their services with the efficiency and security offered by TIR.

The seaports of Sohar and Salalah (Oman) and Jeddah and Dammam (Saudi Arabia) have served as the main ports of arrival. Goods are then transported via trucks across the region before shifting again to a maritime leg and continuing their journeys.

TIR is widely recognised for its trade facilitation benefits at GCC borders, its cutting-edge digital tools ensure timely and secure information exchange between different customs offices along the entire itinerary.

With TIR dedicated express lanes and accelerated customs procedures, operators have enjoyed significant reductions in transit times of up to 92% across land borders, increasing their efficiency and reducing their carbon footprint.

What is TIR?

The TIR system enables goods to be shipped from a country of origin to a country of destination in sealed load compartments that are controlled by customs via a multilateral, mutually recognised system.

TIR streamlines procedures at borders, reducing the administrative burden for customs authorities and transport and logistics companies. It cuts border waiting times significantly, saving time and money.