Global container freight rates increased this week following three consecutive weekly declines, according to the latest World Container Index published by Drewry.
The Drewry World Container Index rose 3% to $2,286 per 40ft container, driven primarily by higher rates on Transpacific and Asia-Europe trade routes. Freight rates from Shanghai to New York increased 7% to $3,721 per 40ft container, while rates from Shanghai to Los Angeles climbed 5% to $3,062.
© Realis Artwok Eka | Dreamstime
The increase follows the introduction of Emergency Fuel Surcharges (EFS) and Peak Season Surcharges (PSS) by major carriers. MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company raised EFS charges on Asia-US East Coast and West Coast routes, while CMA CGM introduced a $2,000 per container PSS effective from 1 May.
On Asia-Europe routes, spot rates remained relatively stable. Rates from Shanghai to Rotterdam rose 2% to $2,170 per 40ft container, while rates to Genoa edged up 1% to $3,075. Carriers including CMA CGM, Hapag-Lloyd and MSC have also announced new Freight All Kinds (FAK) pricing for mid-May, although Drewry noted that weak demand and excess shipping capacity could limit successful implementation.
© Drewry
The report added that carriers continue to manage overcapacity through blank sailings and reduced vessel deployment, with effective capacity expected to decline month-on-month on Asia-North Europe and Asia-Mediterranean routes during May.
Drewry also noted that ongoing tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz remain under close watch, contributing to continued caution across global shipping markets.
More information:
Drewry
[email protected]
www.drewry.co.uk
