Container rates continue to climb

The Drewry World Container Index (WCI) increased three per cent to US$2,800 per 40-ft container for the week of May 25-29 due to rate increases on the Asia–Europe and Transpacific trade routes.

On the Asia–Europe trade route, spot rates increased again this week, driven by early peak season demand. Freight rates from Shanghai to Rotterdam rose three per cent to US$2,861 per 40-ft container and those from Shanghai to Genoa increased four per cent to US$4,253. According to Drewry’s Container Capacity Insight, only four blank sailings have been announced on the Asia to Europe trade route for next week, indicating relatively stable capacity. CMA CGM has also announced new freight-all-kinds (FAK) rates, effective June 1, with Asia–Europe rates at around US$4,700 per 40-ft container and Asia–Mediterranean rates in the range of US$5,500–US$5,700. As the early peak season approaches and carriers continue to raise FAK rates, Drewry expects rates to rise further in the coming weeks.

On the Transpacific trade route, spot rates climbed again this week, with Shanghai to New York rising six per cent to US$4,597 per 40-ft container, and Shanghai to Los Angeles increasing three per cent to US$3,473. According to Drewry’s Container Capacity Insight, eight blank sailings have been announced on the Transpacific trade route for the next week, indicating tighter capacity. ONE has announced a peak season surcharge (PSS) of US$2,000 per 40-ft container on Transpacific eastbound cargo, effective June 1. With early peak-season trends emerging and seasonal demand strengthening through June, Drewry expects further upwards pressure on rates in the coming weeks.

East–West container freight markets are strengthening as the peak season arrives earlier than usual this year. Demand is being pulled forward into June ahead of the expected July 1 bunker fuel adjustment, supporting stronger shipment flows. Carriers continue to raise rates through higher FAK levels and PSS while managing capacity via blank sailings and selective deployment. Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East are also weighing on sentiment, with elevated bunker costs and fuel surcharges adding further upwards pressure across trade lanes.