By MasOceans, Exclusive Local Partner, Shipping updates

Panama Canal | New Neopanamax Booking Priorities and NetZero Requirements

2 November, 2026 – New rules for Neopanamax bookings and NetZero Slot inspections are now in effect at the Panama Canal.

The latest Panama Canal Authority (ACP) advisory sets out changes to the allocation of available Neopanamax slots and the preliminary tonnage inspection requirements for first-time transit vessels applying to the NetZero Slot programme.

Neopanamax | New booking priorities from 30 October

Since 30 October 2026, cancelled or available slots from booking periods 1A and 2 have been allocated through a special process, with the following order of priority:

  • Container vessels
  • LNG carriers
  • LPG carriers
  • Car carriers / RoRo vessels

Within each segment, the ACP applies the relevant tie-breaking criteria, including TTA capacity where applicable.

NetZero Slot | Inspection requirements from 1 November

From 1 November 2026, first-time transit vessels applying for a NetZero Slot must undergo a preliminary ACP tonnage inspection.

The inspection may take place outside Panama before arrival. Technical documentation, applicable fees and local arrangements are required.

Final verification before transit remains necessary.

YOUR VESSELS, OUR PORTS ⚓

Through  CAPAS EEV, CORP. – Shipping Agency, our local partner in Panama, MasOceans coordinates port agency services and operational support for vessel calls and Canal transit arrangements.

Our port and terminal coverage: Bahía Las Minas (Terminal Granelera & Chevron), Colón 2000, Colón Container Terminal, Oil Tanking, Manzanillo International Terminal, Melones Oil Terminal, PPC Balboa & Drydock MEC, PATSA & POTSA, PPC Cristóbal & Telfer Tanks, PSA, PTP Charco Azul, PTP Chiriquí Grande and Taboguilla.

Planning a Panama Canal transit?

For local updates and operational assistance, contact our Commercial Director, Martaxelle Erussard.

📞 +41 (0)79 658 1504
📱 +41 (0)22 552 0051
📩 martaxelle@masoceans.com