The latest data from Drewry's World Container Index (WCI) revealed a 2% increase in global container shipping rates, with the composite index rising to $2,276 per 40ft container as of 22 May 2025. This marks a continued upward trend in freight pricing, though rates remain well below the pandemic peak.
© Tawatchai Prakobkit | Dreamstime
According to Drewry, the current rate is '78% below the previous pandemic peak of $10,377 in September 2021' but '60% higher than the average $1,420 in 2019 (pre-pandemic).' The year-to-date average of $2,723 remains '$174 lower than the 10-year average of $2,897,' influenced heavily by elevated pandemic-era rates.
Key trade lanes drove the index increase:
- Shanghai to Genoa and Shanghai to New York both rose 4% to $2,841 and $4,527, respectively.
- Shanghai to Los Angeles climbed 2% to $3,197.
- Los Angeles to Shanghai edged up 1% to $713.
- Routes involving Rotterdam and New York remained stable.
Drewry noted that 'following the latest US-China trade developments,' an uptick in spot rates is expected in the coming week 'as carriers are reorganising their capacity to accommodate a higher volume of cargo bookings from China.'
© Drewry
More information:
Drewry
www.drewry.co.uk