Ocean Network Express (ONE) is introducing an extra-loader service to address capacity constraints affecting shipments from India to the United States East Coast (USEC), as exporters and freight forwarders continue to face difficulties securing container space.    According to a report, the Singapore-based container carrier is seeking to deploy ad-hoc vessel capacity to accommodate cargo that has struggled to secure bookings following the termination of its dedicated WIN service.    Freight forwarders indicated that the additional vessel has an allocation of approximately 1,000 TEUs for cargo loaded in India. The capacity could help clear part of the accumulated cargo backlog resulting from space shortages on the trade lane.    ONE discontinued its standalone WIN service and introduced the India North America Express (INE) service from August 2026, restructuring its network connecting India’s west coast with the US East Coast.    The revised INE service connects Nhava Sheva and Mundra with Salalah in Oman before calling at New York, Norfolk, Savannah and Charleston. The new rotation was designed to improve network stability, sailing frequency and transit times.    However, the restructuring has coincided with concerns over available container space, prompting the carrier to consider additional capacity outside its regular service deployment.    The extra-loader is expected to provide some relief to exporters and freight forwarders seeking space for shipments to the US East Coast. The additional allocation could also help accommodate cargo delayed by booking constraints on regular services.    India’s west coast gateways, particularly Nhava Sheva and Mundra, are important departure points for containerised exports to the US market. Adequate vessel capacity and predictable sailing schedules are critical for exporters managing delivery commitments, inventory and supply-chain costs.    The additional deployment reflects the use of ad-hoc vessel capacity by carriers to respond to demand and operational pressures while their regular service networks undergo adjustments.   

The extent to which the extra-loader will ease the current shortage will depend on the vessel’s available capacity, loading demand and the continued availability of space on subsequent sailings.