DANISH shipping giant Maersk Line has confirmed earlier reports that it has launched a pay-extra priority loading scheme to provide certain stowage when vessel space is tight.

Under the "Priority Product Upgrade" scheme, customers can pay for priority loading on a particular vessel, said a company statement issued in Shanghai.

"Before, it seemed like saying no to a customer was inevitable, said Maersk vice president Soren Karas.

"When our vessels were full, we could only suggest changing vessels or delaying shipments."

With the Priority Product Upgrade, he said, the line offers an option. "They are then able to prioritise shipments and have more control when it comes to manage their supply chain," he said.