Suez Canal Transit Agency
For more than 45 years, WUSA has represented international shipowners and operators transiting the Suez Canal.
From initial nomination and pre-arrival requirements through to transit and departure, our team manages every stage of the agency process, maintaining close coordination with the Suez Canal Authority and keeping you informed throughout.
Our role is simple: to make your vessel's passage through the Canal as straightforward for you as possible.
//01 Managing Your Suez Canal Transit
A Suez Canal transit starts well before the vessel reaches Port Said or Suez.
Our operations team follows your vessel from nomination and pre-arrival preparation through to its arrival, transit and onward departure. We coordinate directly with the Suez Canal Authority and other relevant parties, ensuring requirements are completed correctly and within the required timeframes.
Throughout the operation, you have a dedicated WUSA contact responsible for your transit and for keeping you updated as it progresses.
We take care of
Pre-arrival documentation and SCA requirements
Vessel registration and transit formalities
ETA monitoring and arrival coordination
Suez Canal dues and financial arrangements
Coordination with the Suez Canal Authority
Transit scheduling and operational follow-up
On-ground attendance where required
Regular operational updates
Final disbursement and account reconciliation
//02 More Than The Transit
Your vessel's passage through Egypt can also provide an opportunity to take care of other operational requirements without arranging a separate port call.
Depending on the vessel, schedule and applicable requirements, WUSA can coordinate additional services during its passage through Egypt, including crew changes, bunkering, ship spares and parcel deliveries, Cash to Master, technicians, surveyors and other husbandry requirements.
One appointment, one point of contact - more taken care of while your vessel is already passing through Egypt.
//03 Experience Where It Matters
WUSA has been handling Suez Canal transits for international shipowners and operators for more than four decades.
That experience isn't simply about knowing the process. It's about understanding what needs to happen, when it needs to happen and who needs to be involved - particularly when circumstances change.
Our team in Egypt combines long-standing local knowledge with direct operational experience, providing principals with a clear point of responsibility throughout every transit.
//04 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does WUSA need from us to arrange a Suez Canal transit?
WUSA will normally require the vessel's principal particulars, Suez Canal tonnage information, cargo and draft details, ETA, last and next ports, together with the documentation required by the Suez Canal Authority. Requirements can vary according to vessel type, cargo and previous Canal history, so our operations team will confirm exactly what is required following nomination.
When does our vessel need to arrive for its Suez Canal transit?
Under the current Suez Canal Rules of Navigation, the normal limit time for joining the convoy is 2300 hours. The vessel must reach the prescribed arrival position, be declared by its agent and be ready for transit. WUSA monitors the vessel's ETA and keeps the principal informed of its transit status and any potential timing issues.
What happens if our vessel arrives after the required arrival time?
A vessel arriving after the normal 2300 limit may still be permitted to join the convoy, subject to additional Suez Canal dues. Under the current Rules of Navigation, arrivals between 2300 and 0000 are subject to a 5% surcharge, between 0000 and 0100 to a 10% surcharge, and after 0100 to a 12% surcharge, with applicable maximum limits and later acceptance subject to traffic conditions.
How are Suez Canal transit dues calculated?
Suez Canal transit dues are principally calculated according to the vessel's Suez Canal Net Tonnage (SCNT), vessel type and whether the vessel is laden or in ballast, using the applicable SCA tariffs and circulars. Additional charges, rebates or special provisions may apply. Based on the vessel's particulars and voyage condition, WUSA can provide an estimated transit cost and Proforma Disbursement Account before transit.
How far in advance should WUSA be nominated as Suez Canal agent?
We recommend nominating WUSA as early as possible once the transit is confirmed. This gives our team time to review the vessel's documentation, prepare the required formalities and financial arrangements, identify any special requirements and monitor the vessel's ETA ahead of arrival. Short-notice nominations can often be accommodated, but earlier appointment reduces the risk of avoidable operational issues.
Can crew changes be arranged during a Suez Canal transit?
Yes. WUSA can coordinate crew changes for vessels transiting the Suez Canal, subject to the necessary immigration, security and operational approvals. We can manage the complete process, including joining and departing crew, immigration formalities, airport assistance, transportation, accommodation where required and transfer to or from the vessel.