The Panama Canal Expansion project is the largest construction project undertaken in the waterway since its opening in 1914. The Expansion includes the construction of a new set of locks on both the Atlantic and Pacific sides and multiple dredging projects to create a second lane of traffic along the Canal. The new locks are much wider and deeper than the current locks. The project doubles the waterway's cargo capacity, enhancing Canal's efficiency.

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Ships transiting the new Locks are required to comply with different requirements than Panamax ships. The most common non-compliance items are the location and safe working loads of mooring and towing equipment on board. Particularly chocks and bollards, which are used for the towing operation, need to withstand a safe working load of 90 tonnes, since the tugboats manoeuvre the ships with greater force than the locomotives would. 

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Ships transiting the new Locks for the first time are subject to inspection and prior review and approval of ship's plans. Ships not receiving advance approval and/or not in compliance with new Locks' requirements may experience delays or denial of transit.