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Samskip launches Morocco’s first fast, sustainable container route to the UK and Netherlands

Samskip has announced the launch of its long-anticipated Moroccan Reefer Service – a pioneering shortsea container route connecting Agadir and Casablanca directly with the UK and the Netherlands. Designed specifically for the fresh produce sector, the service offers the fastest door-to-door transit time on the market, providing a genuine alternative to traditional road transport for Moroccan fruits and vegetables.

As part of this milestone initiative, Samskip has signed a long-term export agreement with the Moroccan Fruit Board to support the shipment of key perishable goods.

With weekly non-stop sailings and an integrated, end-to-end logistics solution, the new service ensures seamless customs clearance and inland transport for temperature-sensitive cargo destined for major European markets. This is currently the only container service on the market fast enough to carry vegetables, setting a new standard in fresh produce logistics between North Africa and Europe.

“This new connection marks a major milestone, not just for Samskip, but for the entire supply chain between Morocco and Northern Europe,” said Ólafur Orri Ólafsson, Chief Business Officer at Samskip. “We’ve listened to growers, importers, and retailers, and will deliver a service that’s faster, greener, and more reliable. It’s a powerful example of what we can achieve when we combine local expertise with the strength of Europe’s largest multimodal network.”

Thanks to Samskip’s transshipment and cross-docking capabilities in Rotterdam, customers can distribute goods throughout Europe – including Norway, Poland, Sweden, Finland, and the Baltic states – within days of arrival. Deliveries to Ireland are possible within just six days of departure from Agadir, offering Irish importers a faster, fresher, and more sustainable supply chain option from North Africa.

Calling at the ports of Casablanca and Agadir, the route continues to Rotterdam, ensuring smooth and efficient access to Europe’s core retail hubs.

This launch forms part of Samskip’s broader growth strategy and its continued commitment to modal shift logistics — moving freight away from congested roads and towards more sustainable rail and sea solutions. With growing demand for eco-friendly and cost-efficient logistics, Samskip is expanding its services to offer smarter transport choices for customers and partners alike.