The Drewry World Container Index (WCI) fell 1% this week, reaching $1,899 per 40ft container, continuing a seven-week downward trend driven by declining rates on the Transpacific and Asia–Europe trade lanes. On the Asia–Europe route, Shanghai–Rotterdam rates dropped 1% to $2,094 per 40ft container, while Shanghai–Genoa fell 2% to $2,826. Transpacific rates from Shanghai to Los Angeles decreased 1% to $2,191, though Shanghai–New York remained steady at $2,771.
© Stanislav Komogorov | Dreamstime
Drewry anticipates rates to remain under pressure as factories in Asia ramp up production and shipping capacity rises, although volumes typically pick up in March following Chinese New Year. Nine blank sailings were announced on the Transpacific East and West Coast routes, fewer than the prior week, indicating gradual recovery in capacity utilisation.
The sector faces additional uncertainty as the US explores reinstating tariffs after a Supreme Court ruling invalidated prior measures. Proposals include an immediate 10% global tariff, potentially rising to 15%, underscoring ongoing policy risk that could affect future freight costs.
Drewry continues to provide comprehensive container freight intelligence through its Container Freight Rate Insight (CFRI), covering over 6,700 global port pairs. Services include contract benchmarking, spot rate tracking, and tailored market insights for shippers, exporters, and logistics stakeholders. The firm also offers the Benchmarking Club, allowing confidential comparison of contract and spot freight rates and access to operational metrics, forecasts, and best practices.
Amid fluctuating spot rates and evolving trade policies, Drewry's analyses offer vital guidance for companies navigating cost management and strategic planning in the global container shipping market.
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