Shipping lines and forwarders have reported no major delays to transit times on the major east-west trades following the implementation of the new convoy system by Suez Canal Authority.

Panalpina regional chief Oliver Hoelzl, said work on the extension had led to some minor disruptions, but this had not impacted on transit times or vessel schedules.

"The carriers do not expect this situation to change greatly, except maybe for some minor vessel delays," he said.

The expanded canal will accommodate vessels of up to 24-metres draught, increase daily capacity, and reduce transit times when the new capacity is opened up on August 6, according to the Suez Canal Authority, reported Lloyd's List.

Maersk Line welcomed the expansion and confirmed the carrier had not had to make any major changes to its schedules ahead of the opening. "The Suez expansion is an impressive engineering project with an ambitious timeline," said a spokeswoman.

"We believe it confirms the Suez Canal Authority's commitment to accommodating growth in trade and vessel sizes. We expect to benefit from reduced transit time and increased flexibility in regards to vessel size," she said.