Maersk Line has begun taking containerships from the charter market on long-term periods.

The move by the AP Moller-Maersk subsidiary, which is the world’s leading liner operator, has raised hopes of a fundamental shift in the direction of the container charter market away from short-term fixtures.

The Danish operator is committing to two-year to three-year charters on a number of vessels between 1,700 teu and 5,600 teu, said containership brokers.