The Drewry World Container Index (WCI) fell 5% to $1,859 per 40ft container, marking the first weekly decline after four consecutive weeks of increases. The drop reflects waning demand as retailers have largely completed imports for the holiday season.
© Mr.siwabud Veerapaisarn | Dreamstime
Transpacific headhaul routes experienced significant declines, with rates from Shanghai to New York falling 15% to $3,254 per 40ft container, and rates to Los Angeles dropping 12% to $2,328. Despite carriers' attempts to sustain prices using general rate increases (GRIs), the effect was short-lived as demand softened. Drewry anticipates rates may either soften slightly or hold steady next week.
In contrast, Asia–Europe routes showed modest increases, as carriers attempt to push spot rates higher ahead of annual contract negotiations. Rates from Shanghai to Genoa rose 4% to $2,193, and Shanghai to Rotterdam increased 3% to $2,028. Carriers plan to introduce higher FAK rates of $3,000–$3,650 per 40ft container from 15 November in anticipation of the new contract season.
Looking ahead, Drewry expects the supply-demand balance to weaken over the next quarters, particularly if normal Suez Canal transits resume. The WCI continues to serve as a trusted benchmark for index-linked contracts, offering insight across eight major East-West trade lanes.
© Drewry
More information:
Drewry
www.drewry.co.uk
