ZIM may not be the largest carrier by volume, but in 2024, it ranked among the top performers on several global trade lanes. Known for its focus on digital transformation and niche service lanes, ZIM offers an edge for shippers who value reliability, speed, and real-time updates.

When managing shipments into sensitive distribution centers or tight customer windows, ZIM’s early arrival consistency and short delay averages become a strategic advantage. In this blog, we look at how ZIM performed across key trade lanes using Vizion’s real-time container tracking and ETA benchmarking data.

How Did ZIM Perform in 2024?

In 2024, Vizion tracked over 13.3 million container journeys using more than 230 data sources. We analyzed Estimated Times of Arrival (ETAs), which are operational forecasts issued by carriers once containers depart origin. These differ from sailing schedules and give shippers a clearer view into true carrier performance.

Real-time tracking shows you where shipments are. Performance data shows how consistently they arrive on time. Together, they give you the insight to avoid surprises, plan more accurately, and allocate resources with confidence. To see additional trade lane performance reports, see here.

Here's how ZIM stacked up across major lanes:

Asia to North America Eastbound (Transpacific)

1. On-time arrivals: 24.4%
2. Early arrivals: 17.3%
3. Median transit time: 38.4 days
4. Typical delay when late: 8.4 days
5. Grade: B+

North America to Asia Westbound (Transpacific)

1. On-time arrivals: 21%
2. Early arrivals: 34.1%
3. Median transit time: 42.7 days
4. Typical delay when late: 8.2 days
5. Grade: A

Europe to Asia Eastbound

1. On-time arrivals: 22.7%
2. Early arrivals: 34.5%
3. Median transit time: 56.3 days
4. Typical delay when late: 6.3 days
5. Grade: A-

Asia to Europe Westbound

1. On-time arrivals: 25.9%
2. Early arrivals: 26.3%
3. Median transit time: 50.7 days
4. Typical delay when late: 6.7 days
5. Grade: A-

North America to Europe Eastbound (Transatlantic)

1. On-time arrivals: 14.7%
2. Early arrivals: 31.4%
3. Median transit time: 31.5 days
4. Typical delay when late: 7.4 days
5. Grade: C+

Europe to North America Westbound (Transatlantic)

1. On-time arrivals: 18%
2. Early arrivals: 14.3%
3. Median transit time: 23.7 days
4. Typical delay when late: 7.7 days
5. Grade: C-

Where ZIM Excels

ZIM ranks at or near the top in both early and on-time performance on the Asia to Middle East and Mediterranean routes. It also maintains tight delay windows when containers are late, helping logistics teams plan with greater precision. This makes ZIM a compelling option for time-sensitive retail, e-commerce, or pharma freight.

While its Asia-Europe performance is more middle of the pack, ZIM’s strength lies in the predictability of its service on shorter haul lanes.

Why Use Vizion to Track ZIM Containers?

ZIM’s portal provides shipment visibility, but for shippers managing multiple carriers or high-volume freight, Vizion offers:

1. Real-time milestone tracking across all carriers
2. Real-time ETAs and alerting
3. Centralized dashboards and stakeholder sharing functionality
4. Full API integration or web-access UI

FAQs About ZIM Container Tracking

How do I track a ZIM container?
Use Vizion’s BoxTrack tool to track ZIM containers in real time. No login required.

Was ZIM reliable in 2024?
Yes. ZIM earned A or B+ grades on several lanes, especially Asia to Middle East and Mediterranean, with short delays and strong early arrival percentages.

What’s a good buffer to plan for with ZIM?
A 3 to 5 day buffer is recommended depending on the lane, based on typical delay ranges from Vizion data.

What is ZIM’s SCAC code?
ZIM’s Standard Carrier Alpha Code is ZIMU, used in shipping documents and tracking systems.

What’s the best way to track ZIM cargo?
You can use ZIM’s portal or freight forwarder dashboards, but Vizion consolidates multi-carrier data into one platform, ideal for scaling visibility.

Ready for Smarter ZIM Tracking?

Tracking is only part of the equation. Vizion brings real-time visibility and performance benchmarking together so you can plan smarter, reduce risk, and optimize logistics.

Track ZIM Now → No login required. Multi-carrier visibility. Instant updates.