Global container shipping rates surged by 12% this week, reaching $2,182 for a 40-foot container. This marks the third consecutive weekly increase, as carriers effectively countered recent downturns in the Transpacific and Asia-Europe trade routes, according to the latest Drewry World Container Index.
This recovery contrasts sharply with the previous week when spot rates on the Transpacific headhaul route dipped to their second-lowest levels since January 2025. Notably, rates from Shanghai to New York increased by 19%, hitting $3,293, while rates from Shanghai to Los Angeles rose by 18% to $2,474. Interestingly, these rate increases occurred despite carriers planning 10 blank sailings on Transpacific routes next week, indicating a resilience in demand that belies the impact of canceled voyages.
Asia-Europe shipping lanes mirrored this upward trend, with Shanghai to Genoa rates climbing by 10% to $3,314 per container and those from Shanghai to Rotterdam growing by 8% to $2,539. This route has now sustained stable or rising rates over three weeks, reflecting a shift in seasonal patterns that Drewry has identified as part of a “new normal.” Anticipating increased demand leading up to the Lunar New Year in February 2026, carriers are securing early bookings, hinting at further rate increases.
The recent shifts highlight the volatility of the container shipping market amidst changing seasonal dynamics, capacity management challenges, and ongoing geopolitical disruptions impacting major trade routes. Last week’s trends indicated a decline in Transpacific rates, emphasizing the industry’s struggle against a fundamental volume issue, especially as Christmas inventory was largely shipped in November.
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