Container rates jump 12 per cent

The Drewry World Container Index (WCI) rose 12 per cent to US$2,182 per 40-ft container for the week of Dec. 15-19, the third consecutive weekly increase mainly due to rate hikes on Transpacific and Asia–Europe trade routes.

Following the previous week’s decline that pushed spot rates to their second lowest level since January 2025, rates on the Transpacific headhaul have recovered. Spot rates from Shanghai to New York climbed 19 per cent to US$3,293 per 40-ft container, while those to Los Angeles jumped 18 per cent to US$2,474. According to Drewry’s Container Capacity Insight, 10 blank sailings have been announced for the next week on the Transpacific trade lane.

Spot rates on the Shanghai–Genoa route saw a double-digit surge, rising 10 per cent to US$3,314 per 40-ft container, while those on the Shanghai–Rotterdam expanded eight per cent to US$2,539.

Spot rates on the Asia–Europe trade route have maintained stability or rising rate levels for three consecutive weeks. This strength is driven by a shift in seasonal patterns.

Over the last three years, Drewry has recorded a double-digit month-over-month demand growth in December, establishing strong year-end volumes as the ‘new normal.’

As carriers are already recording early bookings ahead of the impending Lunar New Year in February 2026, Drewry expects further slight rate increases next week.