Container rates stable for second consecutive week

The Drewry World Container Index (WCI) remained stable for the second consecutive week at US$4,476 per 40-ft container for the week of Sept. 7-11.

On the Transpacific trade, rates from Shanghai to Los Angeles rose two per cent to US$7,352 per 40-ft container, while those from Shanghai to New York edged up one per cent to US$9,726. According to Drewry’s Container Capacity Insight, eight blank sailings have been announced for next week, up from seven this week, indicating tighter capacity. With easing demand and continued carrier capacity management, Drewry expects freight rates to remain stable next week. 

On the Asia–Europe trade route, rates from Shanghai to Genoa fell three per cent to US$4,216 per 40-ft container while they decreased two per cent to US$3,997 from Shanghai to Rotterdam. According to Drewry’s Container Capacity Insight, three blank sailings are announced for next week, up from one this week, indicating tight capacity. While congestion at Shanghai port remained elevated, it improved from 94 hours in Week 35 to 64 hours in Week 36. With low demand, persistent congestion in Asia and continued capacity management by carriers, Drewry expects rates to remain stable next week.

Iran–U.S. tensions continue to disrupt shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The Panama Canal Authority has postponed a 0.15-metre draft reduction for Neopanamax vessels, although transit restrictions remain. Carriers are supporting rates through capacity management, while congestion at Asian ports continues to disrupt schedules.

Meanwhile, the selective return of services to the Suez Canal is restoring effective capacity on Asia–Europe routes, putting downwards pressure on freight rates. Early booking remains important as congestion and blank sailings can tighten capacity.