This is a reminder regarding the upcoming Fremantle Traffic Bridge closure commencing February 2026, which is expected to cause significant congestion and access constraints within the Fremantle port precinct and surrounding road network.
The WA Government is currently reviewing traffic management measures, including the possible introduction of peak-period access restrictions for laden heavy vehicles. While no restrictions are expected at the commencement of the closure, this position remains under review and may change if deemed necessary.
Industry proposals to mitigate congestion through the use of High Performance Vehicles (HPVs) have been submitted; however, the WA Government has advised these will not be considered at this stage.
Approximately 23,000 vehicles per day diverted to Stirling Bridge (already carrying ~38,000 vehicles daily)
2–4 hour delays during peak periods
Canning Highway restricted to bus-only access
Network-wide congestion between 7:00 AM and 4:00 PM
Increased congestion around Fremantle and Canning areas
Customers should plan for:
Extended port-to-destination transit times
Reduced routing options during business hours
Higher risk of gridlock, especially during peak periods
Delayed deliveries
Delayed empty container dehire
We strongly recommend customers immediately engage shipping lines to secure extended free time.
Operational reality during the bridge closure:
Up to 3 business days required for delivery
Plus up to 2 additional business days for dehire via rail terminals
Up to 5 business days total required under constrained conditions
To mitigate demurrage and detention exposure, we recommend:
10+ additional free days, where possible
Flexibility for delay allowances during the closure period
Please note:
KLN will not accept liability for demurrage or detention charges arising from operational constraints directly linked to the bridge closure, regardless of existing free time arrangements.
It is essential this position is communicated clearly to your internal stakeholders and customers so appropriate contingency planning can be undertaken.
After-hours deliveries will be critical to maintaining service continuity:
Recommended delivery windows
Evening: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Early morning: 4:00 AM – 7:00 AM
Benefits
Reduced congestion
Faster transit times
Lower detention risk
Improved delivery reliability
Expanding intermodal options where available to reduce road congestion
Please note rail capacity remains limited, and vessel bunching or terminal delays will continue to affect throughput
KLN is working toward:
Increased after-hours delivery coordination
Enhanced fleet and driver availability where feasible
Live shipment tracking and visibility through KLN systems
After-hours services will be offered subject to operational capacity and resource availability.
Begin free time negotiations with shipping lines now
Discuss after-hours delivery options with your customers
Advise KLN Customer Service of any extended site operating hours
Arrange site assessments for after-hours access where required
Monitor shipments closely via KLN’s tracking and reporting tools
We appreciate your cooperation as we prepare for this significant infrastructure disruption. Early planning and flexibility will be critical to minimising impact across the supply chain.