MSC tracking

What is MSC?

MSC, an acronym for Mediterranean Shipping Company, is an international maritime company specializing in container transport and global logistics. Founded in 1970 by Captain Gianluigi Aponte in Naples, Italy, this family business has experienced rapid growth to become the world's leading container carrier. In January 2022, MSC officially surpassed its historic competitor Maersk to establish itself as the undisputed leader in containerized maritime transport, both in fleet size and freight capacity.

The company established its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland in 1978, where it remains based today. MSC remains fundamentally an independent family company, entirely controlled by the Aponte family. Founder Gianluigi Aponte, still the principal shareholder, entrusted the group presidency to his son Diego Aponte in 2014. Soren Toft has held the position of Chief Executive Officer since 2020, managing day-to-day operations alongside the family leadership. This family management structure provides the company with great stability and a strategic vision oriented toward the long term.

In terms of figures, MSC today operates an impressive fleet of approximately 900 cargo ships with a total capacity approaching 7 million twenty-foot equivalents, representing nearly 21% of global container capacity. The group employs over 200,000 people worldwide and has a network of 675 offices and agencies spread across 155 countries. This global presence enables MSC to serve more than 520 ports on all continents, making the company an essential player in international trade.

• Founded: 1970, in Naples, Italy, with the purchase of the first ship by Captain Gianluigi Aponte to launch a line to East Africa
• Parent company: MSC Group, a family holding owned by the Aponte family which also encompasses MSC Cruises and various logistics activities
• Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland, since 1978
• Annual volume: Transport capacity of approximately 7 million twenty-foot equivalents, the world's largest container ship fleet
• Workforce: Over 200,000 employees worldwide, working in agencies, on ships and in port terminals

MSC's history is marked by milestones that demonstrate its continuous expansion. During the 1970s and 1980s, the company gradually extends its routes to Northern Europe, Africa and the Indian Ocean. In 1988, the group enters the cruise sector with the acquisition of Lauro Lines, giving birth to MSC Cruises, today the world's third-largest cruise operator. The 1990s mark a turning point with the ordering of the first new container ships, the MSC Alexa and MSC Rafaela, intended for Asia-Northern Europe routes. Growth accelerates in the 2000s with the deployment of increasingly large ships. In 2009, the MSC Pamela displays a capacity of 9,000 twenty-foot equivalents, while in 2015, the MSC Oscar becomes the world's largest container ship with 19,224 twenty-foot equivalents. More recently, the MSC Gülsün, deployed in 2019, can carry 23,756 twenty-foot equivalents, illustrating the race toward gigantism in the maritime sector.

The MSC group is also pursuing an ambitious diversification strategy. In 2020, the company acquires the port terminals and African rail transport of the Bolloré group for 5.7 billion euros, giving birth to Africa Global Logistics. In 2023, MSC acquires a majority stake in air cargo company AlisCargo Airlines, thus adding air freight transport to its service portfolio. This diversification allows MSC to offer truly multimodal logistics solutions, combining maritime, land and air transport to meet the most complex needs of its customers.

In which countries does MSC deliver?

MSC has a global network of exceptional scope, covering virtually all continents and nearly all major international trade routes. With 675 offices located in over 155 countries and serving more than 520 ports, the Geneva-based shipping company offers geographic coverage among the most extensive in the industry. This global presence enables shippers and importers to benefit from unprecedented connectivity between the world's major economic zones.

In Europe, MSC operates intensively in all European Union countries and beyond. The ports of the Benelux region, particularly Rotterdam and Antwerp, are major hubs for the group's operations. In France, the ports of Le Havre and Marseille-Fos are regularly served by MSC lines. Germany with Hamburg and Bremerhaven, Italy with Genoa and Gioia Tauro, Spain with Valencia and Barcelona, and Eastern European countries are integral parts of the European network. The Mediterranean and Adriatic regions also benefit from dense coverage with connections to Greece, Turkey and the Balkans.

On the Asian continent, MSC ensures regular connections to the region's major economies. China represents a strategic market with services to Shanghai, Ningbo, Shenzhen and many other ports. MSC has launched a direct route connecting the Chinese port of Dalian to several Mediterranean countries. Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, India and other Asian economies are also integrated into the network. The Indian subcontinent benefits from dedicated connections to the ports of Mumbai, Chennai and Colombo in Sri Lanka.

• Europe: Complete coverage including major ports in Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, Adriatic and Eastern Europe, with Rotterdam, Antwerp, Le Havre, Hamburg, Genoa, Valencia and many others
• Asia: Connections to China, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, India, and all Asian markets with regular weekly services
• North America: Services to the East and West coasts of the United States and Canada, including the ports of New York, Los Angeles, Long Beach, Savannah, and major Canadian terminals
• South America: Coverage of Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Colombia and other South American markets with dedicated lines
• Africa: Strengthened presence across the continent thanks to the acquisition of Africa Global Logistics, covering Egypt, South Africa, Morocco, Nigeria and ports on the West and East African coasts
• Middle East: Connections to the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and other Persian Gulf markets
• Oceania: Services to Australia and New Zealand with regular services

For its East-West network, which forms the core of its activities, MSC has deployed a particularly dense autonomous network. This network comprises 34 loops spread across 5 major axes: 7 loops for the Asia-Northern Europe connection, 6 loops for Asia-Mediterranean, 4 loops for Asia-West Coast North America, 6 loops for Asia-East Coast North America, and 11 loops for the transatlantic network. Customers can choose between weekly services via the Suez Canal, offering more than 1,900 pairs of direct ports, or via the Cape of Good Hope with more than 1,800 pairs of direct ports.

This maximum coverage strategy reflects MSC's desire to offer shippers and freight forwarders the greatest possible number of port combinations. The company continues to add new ports of call to its Asia-Europe and transpacific services, for both loading and destination ports, further strengthening its position as the world leader in containerized maritime transport.

What are MSC's services and delivery times?

MSC offers an extensive range of maritime transport and logistics services adapted to the varied needs of shippers, whether large companies or SMEs. The core business of the company remains the transport of containers on international ocean routes, but the offering has diversified considerably to include complete logistics solutions ranging from simple port-to-port transport to fully managed door-to-door delivery.

In maritime container transport, MSC offers two main options. The FCL service, for Full Container Load, allows customers to book an entire container for their shipment. This option is particularly suitable for large volumes and offers the advantage of reduced cargo handling, thus reducing the risk of damage or theft. The container is loaded and sealed at the point of origin and will only be opened at destination. For smaller shipments, the LCL service, for Less than Container Load, allows you to share the space of a container with other shippers. The customer only pays for the space actually used, measured in cubic meters. This solution is ideal for small shipments or companies wishing to test new markets without committing to large volumes.

Delivery times vary considerably depending on maritime routes, ports of origin and destination, and the type of service chosen. For Asia-Europe connections, which constitute one of the most traveled routes, transit times generally range between 25 and 35 days depending on the ports involved. Transpacific connections between Asia and North America typically take between 15 and 25 days to the West Coast and between 25 and 35 days to the East Coast via the Panama Canal or by transshipment. For transatlantic routes between Europe and North America, delivery times are generally between 10 and 15 days. Connections to Africa, South America or Oceania present more variable times, ranging from 20 to 45 days depending on destinations.

• FCL maritime transport: Exclusive full container reserved for one shipment, offering maximum security and minimal cargo handling throughout the journey
• LCL maritime transport: Container space sharing with other shippers, billing per cubic meter used, economical solution for small volumes
• Door-to-door service: Complete handling from pickup at the shipper to final delivery, including land transport, maritime transport and customs clearance
• Port-to-port service: Maritime transport only, with the customer organizing land segments and customs formalities at each end
• Intermodal solutions: Combination of maritime transport with rail or road segments to reach inland destinations far from ports
• Refrigerated container transport: Specialized solutions for perishable goods with temperature control via the iReefer system

MSC has developed specialized services to meet the specific needs of certain industries. Refrigerated container transport receives particular attention with the iReefer system which allows remote control and continuous monitoring of the temperature of refrigerated containers, thus guaranteeing the quality of fresh, frozen or pharmaceutical products throughout the voyage. For oversized cargo or industrial projects, MSC offers special containers such as flat racks, open tops or half-height containers, enabling the transport of machinery, heavy equipment or construction materials that do not fit standard dimensions.

The company also offers air freight services via its subsidiary AlisCargo Airlines, acquired in 2023, which operates international cargo flights with Boeing 777s. This option makes it possible to meet urgent needs or shipments of high value-added goods requiring very short delivery times. The combination of maritime and air capabilities offers customers maximum flexibility in managing their supply chains.

What are MSC's rates and maximum dimensions accepted?

Shipping rates at MSC, like all shipping companies, are subject to significant fluctuations depending on supply and demand, routes used, season and global geopolitical context. Containerized maritime transport does not operate on the basis of fixed pricing grids as some express parcel carriers may do. Prices are generally negotiated on a case-by-case basis or based on long-term contracts for large shippers, while spot rates fluctuate daily on the market.

As an indication, FAK rates, for Freight All Kinds, for Far East to Europe connections are generally between 2,000 and 4,000 US dollars for a 20-foot container and between 3,500 and 5,000 dollars for a 40-foot container to Northern Europe. For Mediterranean and Adriatic destinations, levels are generally higher. These rates are understood from base port to base port, excluding ancillary charges such as fuel surcharges, port handling fees or supplements for refrigerated containers.

Rates can experience significant variations depending on market conditions. Increases of several hundred dollars per container are regularly observed depending on destinations and types of equipment. Additional surcharges may also apply for refrigerated containers due to imbalances in equipment availability by region. These variations illustrate the volatility inherent in the maritime freight market and the importance for shippers to regularly monitor rate trends.

• Asia-Northern Europe rates: Generally between 2,000 and 5,000 dollars for a container depending on size and market conditions, excluding ancillary fees
• Asia-Mediterranean rates: Levels generally higher than to Northern Europe, with significant variations depending on demand and season
• Variation factors: Prices fluctuate according to seasonal demand, port congestion, fuel costs, geopolitical tensions and equipment availability
• Possible surcharges: Port handling fees, fuel surcharge, supplement for refrigerated containers, port congestion fees, taxes and customs duties

Regarding container dimensions, MSC uses equipment compliant with international ISO standards, standardized to allow their transport by ship, train or truck. Standard containers are available in two main lengths: 20 feet (approximately 6 meters) and 40 feet (approximately 12 meters), for a uniform width of 2.44 meters. 20-foot containers measure approximately 2.59 meters in height while 40-foot containers, particularly High Cube models, reach approximately 2.90 meters in height, offering greater loading volume for bulky but light cargo.

Weight limits vary depending on the type of container and the regulations of the countries crossed. In accordance with the SOLAS convention, each container must respect its maximum authorized gross weight, and the shipper is required to provide the verified gross weight before loading on the ship. As a general rule, a standard 20-foot container can support a payload of approximately 21 to 28 tons depending on specifications, while a 40-foot container generally accepts up to 26 to 30 tons of payload. These values may vary and it is essential to verify the exact specifications with MSC for each shipment.

For cargo not meeting standard dimensions, MSC offers specialized equipment. Flat rack containers, without side walls, allow the loading of machinery or oversized industrial parts. Open top containers, without a fixed roof, facilitate loading from above of tall or heavy cargo requiring the use of cranes. Half-height containers are suitable for dense materials such as minerals or steel. For these special equipments, rates and availability must be verified on a case-by-case basis with MSC agencies.

What are MSC's delivery options?

MSC offers several delivery formulas allowing shippers to choose the level of service corresponding to their needs and logistics organization. These options range from simple maritime transport between two ports to complete supply chain management, including pickup, land transport, port handling, maritime crossing, customs clearance and final delivery.

The port-to-port option constitutes the basic service offered by MSC. In this configuration, the company is responsible only for maritime transport between the loading port and the discharge port. The shipper or his freight forwarder arranges himself the transport of goods to the port of departure, export formalities, as well as collection at the arrival port, import customs clearance and final delivery. This option suits companies with their own logistics capabilities or working with established local freight forwarders.

For more complete handling, MSC offers door-to-door services where the company organizes the entire transport from pickup at the shipper to delivery at the recipient's address. This formula includes initial land transport by truck or rail, passage through the export port terminal, maritime crossing, port operations at destination, customs clearance if this service is subscribed, and final transport to the recipient's site. Intermediate variants also exist: door-to-port, where MSC picks up the goods but delivers them to the destination port, and port-to-door, where handling begins at the departure port and ends at the final address.

• Port-to-port: Maritime transport only, the customer independently manages land segments and customs clearance at each end of the journey
• Door-to-door: Complete service including pickup, land transport, maritime voyage, customs clearance and final delivery to the recipient
• Door-to-port: Pickup at the shipper and delivery to the destination port, the customer then collecting his goods
• Port-to-door: Handling begins at the departure port with delivery to the final recipient's address
• Intermodal transport: Combination of maritime with rail segments to reach inland destinations far from port facades

MSC has developed a significant land logistics network to complement its maritime services. In Europe, the Medlog subsidiary organizes truck and rail transport from ports to the interior and vice versa. In Africa, Africa Global Logistics, resulting from the acquisition of Bolloré's activities, offers road and rail transport services covering much of the continent. In South America, the Log-In subsidiary provides similar services. These capabilities allow MSC to offer routes to landlocked destinations, far from maritime coasts.

Rescheduling deliveries is possible by contacting the local MSC agency that manages the shipment. In the event of unforeseen circumstances or changes in the recipient's plans, it is generally possible to modify delivery instructions for the final land segment, provided the container has not yet left the port terminal. Any fees associated with these changes depend on the stage of advancement of the shipment and contractual conditions.

For shipment tracking, MSC provides an online platform allowing real-time tracking of container progress. Customers can subscribe to automatic notifications to receive email alerts about the main stages of the voyage: loading on the ship, port departure, possible transshipments, arrival at destination and container availability. The tracking system uses GPS and AIS technologies to provide accurate information on ship movements and container positions.

What should I do if my MSC package is lost or damaged?

In case of loss or damage to your cargo during transport with MSC, there are established procedures for filing a claim and, if applicable, obtaining compensation. The procedure to follow depends notably on the type of coverage subscribed: conventional cargo insurance or extended protection service offered by MSC. In any case, promptness in reporting the loss or damage and the quality of the documentation provided are determining factors for proper handling of the claim.

The first step is to carefully inspect the container and its contents upon receipt. This inspection should ideally be performed before or at the time of delivery, in the presence of the carrier if possible. If damage or shortages are apparent, it is imperative to issue precise written reservations on the delivery note and notify MSC immediately. Photographing observed damage, the condition of container seals and any element making it possible to document the loss is strongly recommended. If damage is not immediately visible and is only discovered after opening and unloading the container, notification must be made upon discovery of the problem, specifying the circumstances and estimating the amount of prejudice.

MSC offers two types of coverage to protect transported goods. Conventional marine cargo insurance, usually subscribed through a third-party insurer or via MSC Marine Cargo Insurance, covers risks inherent in maritime and land transport according to ICC A conditions, which represent the most comprehensive coverage. In the event of loss or damage, the insurer designates a local expert to assess the damage and prepare a report. Documents to be provided generally include the commercial invoice, a copy of the bill of lading, a letter of reservations and the expert report. MSC undertakes to process insurance claims within 30 days of receipt of a complete file.

• Inspection upon receipt: Check the condition of the container and cargo before or at delivery, issue written reservations in case of visible problems
• Immediate notification: Inform MSC without delay of any apparent damage or, in case of hidden damage, upon discovery by documenting the circumstances
• Documentation of loss or damage: Photograph damage, retain packaging, gather commercial invoices, bill of lading and any relevant documents
• Claim deadline: Respect contractual deadlines for filing a claim, generally mentioned on the bill of lading or transport conditions
• Expert assessment: An expert may be appointed to assess damage and prepare a report serving as the basis for compensation

In addition to or as an alternative to conventional insurance, MSC offers its Extended Protection service. This extended liability product expands the transport conditions of the standard MSC bill of lading to offer additional protection in case of loss or damage occurring while in the company's care. Extended Protection has the advantage of a simplified claims procedure with fewer documents to provide and a dedicated local contact point. MSC aims to conclude Extended Protection claims within an average of 30 business days from the submission of a complete file. Claims must be submitted in US dollars.

However, there are common exclusions to different protection formulas. Generally not covered are damages resulting from geopolitical events, delays, insufficient or inappropriate packaging, intentional acts of the shipper or recipient, ordinary leakage, weight loss, normal wear, defects inherent to the goods, or variations in temperature or atmospheric pressure not related to equipment failure. For sensitive or high-value merchandise, it is recommended to take out specific coverage adapted to the nature of the goods being transported.

For any questions regarding a claim or to initiate a procedure, contacting the local MSC agency is recommended. Contact details are available on the company's official website at www.msc.com/contact-us. Local staff have the expertise needed to guide customers through the procedures and ensure all required documents are gathered for efficient file processing.

Does MSC handle international shipments and customs formalities?

As the world's leading container carrier, MSC is by definition specialized in international shipments crossing borders and oceans. Managing customs formalities is an essential aspect of international goods transport, and MSC offers dedicated services to assist its customers with these complex procedures. Each time cargo leaves one country or enters another, a series of procedures and taxes must be applied to comply with applicable customs regulations.

MSC offers customs clearance services through its local agencies and specialized partners. Local expertise is considered essential to effectively meet regulatory requirements in each country. MSC teams present in 155 countries know the rules for product identification and the particularities of national legislation, which ensures smooth customs passage and minimizes the risk of blockage or penalties. For imports, MSC aims to obtain customs clearance within two business days of receiving documents. For exports, the objective is to proceed with customs clearance on the same business day.

Documents required for international customs clearance include several essential elements. The commercial invoice details the nature, value and origin of the goods. The packing list specifies the contents of each package or container. The bill of lading constitutes the maritime transport document attesting to the carrier's acceptance of the goods. The certificate of origin may be required to benefit from preferential customs rates under trade agreements. Depending on the products, import licenses, sanitary or phytosanitary certificates, or other specific documents may be required.

• Commercial invoice: Document detailing the nature, quantity, value and origin of goods, serving as the basis for calculating customs duties
• Packing list: Detailed inventory of the contents of each container or package allowing customs to verify shipment compliance
• Bill of lading: Maritime transport document issued by MSC attesting to the acceptance of goods and their transport conditions
• Certificate of origin: Attestation of the geographical origin of products, often necessary to benefit from reduced customs duties
• Customs declaration: Official form submitted to customs authorities describing the goods and their customs regime
• Specific documents: Licenses, permits, sanitary or phytosanitary certificates depending on the nature of products and requirements of the destination country

Correct classification of goods according to the harmonized HS code system is crucial to avoid problems during customs clearance. Incorrect classification can result in incorrect customs duties, delays or penalties. MSC recommends using the services of qualified customs brokers and establishing robust compliance management systems. Customs automation tools can also help improve the efficiency and accuracy of the process.

MSC uses advanced digital solutions to facilitate data exchange with customs authorities. The company is connected to port community systems allowing the submission of customs declarations electronically on behalf of its customers. This digitization accelerates file processing and improves traceability. For shipments destined for the United States, MSC facilitates access to bill of lading information necessary for importers to file their ISF declarations within regulatory deadlines.

Regarding security seals, MSC enforces a mandatory policy for the use of high-security seals compliant with ISO 17712 standard on all full containers in international transport. This requirement meets the standards of the C-TPAT program in the United States and equivalent security programs in other countries. Seals must be properly affixed at the loading point to prevent unauthorized intrusions and guarantee cargo integrity throughout its journey.

Customs duties and import taxes generally remain the responsibility of the recipient or importer, except by contrary contractual agreement. These charges include customs duties calculated on the value of goods and their tariff classification, as well as VAT or sales taxes applicable in the destination country. Customs clearance times can vary from a few hours to several days depending on file complexity, document availability and any physical inspections decided by authorities. MSC advises anticipating these timeframes in logistics planning to avoid supply disruptions.

Understanding tracking statuses

When you track an MSC container online via the tracking portal available at msc.com/track-a-shipment, different statuses appear to indicate the progress of your shipment at each stage of the journey. These statuses reflect key events recorded in MSC's information system, from reservation confirmation to final delivery. Understanding their meaning allows you to effectively track your goods' journey and anticipate the next logistics steps.