SM Portland, a 4,228-TEU container ship operated by SM Line, faced fierce winter storms while crossing the Bering Sea. The vessel lost 115 containers due to severe rolling in high winds and rough seas. As it continues toward Vancouver under strict monitoring, industry experts analyze the impact and safety measures.
SM Portland had departed from Busan, South Korea, making stops in China and South Korea before heading toward Vancouver. On March 4, while navigating the treacherous Bering Sea, the vessel encountered extreme weather conditions that caused it to tilt dramatically, leading to significant cargo losses. In response, the ship adjusted its course and reduced speed to ensure crew and vessel safety. AIS tracking data confirmed a course change on March 4, followed by a resumption of its route at a slower pace the next day.
SM Line promptly issued a customer alert on March 5, notifying cargo owners of potential losses and urging them to verify their shipping documents. The company assured clients that it is actively monitoring the situation and working to minimize disruptions. Once SM Portland reaches Vancouver, Transport Canada and the Canadian Coast Guard will conduct a thorough investigation before granting permission to berth. SM Line also warned of possible delays due to the inspection process.
The maritime industry has been working to reduce container losses by improving safety protocols, increasing crew training, and implementing new technologies to detect dangerous rolling conditions. A 2024 report by the World Shipping Council revealed that 221 containers were lost at sea in 2023, a significant drop from 661 in 2022. Despite these improvements, incidents like SM Portland’s loss highlight the ongoing challenges faced by global shipping.
The industry has seen catastrophic losses in recent years, including the ONE Apus disaster in 2020, where over 1,800 containers were lost due to severe weather. Similarly, Maersk Essen and Maersk Eindhoven suffered substantial container losses in 2021. These incidents have prompted the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to introduce mandatory container loss reporting requirements, set to take effect on January 1, 2026. The new regulations aim to enhance maritime safety and environmental protection through improved transparency and accountability.
Founded in 2016 after acquiring assets from Hanjin Shipping, SM Line operates over 20 vessels, primarily in transpacific and intra-Asia trade lanes. The company launched its North American service in 2017 and continues its Pacific routes in cooperation with Korean carrier HMM. As a rising force in global shipping, SM Line remains committed to strengthening safety measures and minimizing disruptions in international trade.
The SM Portland incident underscores the unpredictable nature of maritime transport and the need for constant improvements in safety protocols. With mandatory container loss reporting coming in 2026, stakeholders expect enhanced transparency and risk mitigation, ensuring better protection for cargo, crew, and the environment.
