Force Majeure and Bill of Lading Clauses: What Happens When War or Weather Diverts Cargo

In March 2026, the words “force majeure” began cascading through carrier customer advisories as the Strait of Hormuz crisis erupted. CMA CGM declared that its vessel diversions were subject to “applicable force majeure provisions.” Maersk, MSC, and other major lines cited force majeure and the need to protect crew and cargo safety. Most shippers read […]