The disruption affected traffic approaching the Essex terminal via the A1014 Manorway, with drivers reporting lengthy queues from the early hours of Friday, 28 August. Some motorists said they were still several miles from the terminal after spending hours in the queue.
Local reports suggested the congestion may have followed a computer-system failure at the port during the early morning, although DP World had not confirmed the cause at the time of writing.
A worker at the neighbouring logistics park told the BBC that the terminal’s computer systems were understood to have stopped working at around 3am. Drivers subsequently reported queuing from around 4am.
Delays far beyond normal turnaround times
The disruption stands out against London Gateway’s normal operating figures. DP World says the terminal has 12 truck lanes and an average truck turnaround time of around 45 minutes.
Hauliers using London Gateway are also required to use the port’s Vehicle Booking System, which manages collection and delivery appointments. There has been no confirmation that the reported technical problem affected the booking system itself.
Knock-on effects possible for hauliers
Hours-long delays at the terminal gate can create problems beyond the initial queue. Drivers who miss booked collection or delivery windows may also face difficulties completing subsequent jobs within their available driving and working time, while delayed container movements can affect onward deliveries to warehouses, distribution centres and customers.
London Gateway is one of the UK’s major container hubs. DP World says the terminal has capacity to handle 3.4 million TEU and is connected to inland destinations by 22 daily rail services.
At the time of writing, DP World had not confirmed how many vehicles had been affected, whether normal operations had resumed, or whether further delays were expected during the day.
Trans.info has contacted DP World for clarification.
