According to the latest Drewry World Container Index, global freight rates for 40-foot containers rose by 7 this week to reach $1,927 per box, ending a three-week decline that had pushed spot rates to their lowest level since January 2025.
The rebound was mainly supported by the increase in freight rates on the transpacific and Asia-Europe trade routes, as carriers have adopted new tactical approaches to managing rates.
More specifically, transpacific rates have bounced back strongly from their lowest level since January 2025: from Shanghai to Los Angeles, rates increased by 8% $2,256, and to New York, rates went up by 6% to $2,895. Some lines have adjusted their pricing strategy from the big bi-weekly rate hikes to high-frequency, small increases. This is aimed at continuously exerting upward rate pressure, and this strategy has shown significant effects this week.
On the Asia-Europe trade lane, rates have been supported for three consecutive weeks. Rates from Shanghai to Genoa surged by 15% to $2,68, and to Rotterdam, rates edged up 4% to $2,241. Carriers are using FAK (freight all kinds) hikes topin the coming annual contract negotiations.
In addition, the outlook for the smooth sailing of the Suez Canal continues to be fraught with uncertainties, continuing to disrupt the-Europe shipping market.
Although carriers widely regard the Suez Canal as the natural shipping trunk route between Asia and Europe, the large volume of capacity that will re- the market once the canal is fully restored could very likely gradually push down the rate levels on the Asia-Europe trade lanes. However, the potential congestion in ports resulting from theconfiguration of east-west routes may provide some relief to the downward pressure on rates.
The rate rebound comes as the container shipping industry navigates a complex market, balancing management with seasonal demand patterns, the effects of advance booking, and ongoing geopolitical turmoil that impacts major trade routes.
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