Global container freight rates have continued to decline, with Drewry's World Container Index (WCI) falling by 1% to $1,651 per 40ft container, marking the 17th consecutive weekly drop and the lowest level since January 2024.
© VanderWolfImages | Dreamstime
According to Drewry Supply Chain Advisors, spot rates on the Transpacific route showed limited movement during China's Golden Week holidays. Rates from Shanghai to Los Angeles decreased 1% to $2,176 per 40ft container, while those from Shanghai to New York remained steady at $3,189.
In Europe, the Asia-Europe trade lane recorded its ninth consecutive weekly decline, edging closer to pre-Red Sea disruption levels. The spot rate from Shanghai to Rotterdam fell 2% to $1,577, and from Shanghai to Genoa dropped 1% to $1,793.
"Drewry expects rates to continue to decline in the coming week," the consultancy noted in its latest market update. "Drewry's Container Forecaster expects the supply-demand balance to weaken in the next few quarters, which will cause spot rates to contract."
The WCI, widely regarded as an independent benchmark for global shipping contracts, tracks pricing across eight major East-West trade routes and serves as a critical indicator for global trade and supply chain performance.
The sustained decline in freight rates underscores the easing of global shipping pressures seen since late 2024, as demand softens and capacity normalises across major ports.
© Drewry
More information:
Drewry
www.drewry.co.uk
