Panama Canal Changes Slot Reallocation Rules and Streamlines NetZero Program Entry
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The Panama Canal updated the criteria for reallocating slots that are canceled or become available during booking periods 1A and 2 for the Neopanamax locks. The measure was communicated through an advisory to shipping lines, takes effect immediately, and reverts the allocation scheme to the criteria in place prior to July 2026.
Order of Priority
Slots available during these periods will be offered through a special allocation process, with the following order of priority: container ships, liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) carriers, and vehicle carriers or RoRo vessels. Within each segment, Transit TEU Allowance (TTA) capacity will be used as the first tiebreaker criterion, where applicable.
Changes to the NetZero Program
Through the same advisory, the Canal updated the requirements for vessels transiting the interoceanic waterway for the first time to qualify for slots under the NetZero program, an initiative aimed at encouraging investment in low-carbon-emission, energy-efficient vessels. Vessels must undergo a preliminary tonnage measurement inspection conducted by the Panama Canal's Measurement Unit, and as a new feature, this assessment may now be carried out outside Panama to speed up participation in the program.
New Procedure Starting in November
Starting November 1, 2026, owners, operators, or authorized agents will be able to request this assessment before the vessel arrives in the waters of the interoceanic waterway. This will allow the Canal to have the necessary information in advance to calculate tolls, determine tonnage under the Panama Canal Universal Measurement System (PC/UMS), and identify engine type, among other requirements for inclusion in NetZero.
The applicant must submit the corresponding technical documentation, pay the applicable fees and charges, and coordinate the necessary arrangements at the port where the vessel is located, although the preliminary inspection will not replace the final verification or any other reviews that may be required before transit. With these measures, the Panama Canal seeks to promote the incorporation of low-emission, more energy-efficient vessels while maintaining clear and predictable criteria for allocating transit capacity.
