Global container shipping rates edged up 1% this week to $2,213 per 40-foot container, marking the fourth consecutive weekly increase, according to the Drewry World Container Index (WCI).
The steady rise reflects sustained demand across major trade routes, particularly Asia–Europe and Transpacific lanes, as cargo volumes remain resilient heading into the new year. The recent upswing follows a brief dip in early December, when rates fell to their second-lowest level since January 2025.
Asia–Europe routes led the gains. Spot rates from Shanghai to Genoa climbed 3% to $3,427, while Shanghai to Rotterdam rose 2% to $2,584 per container. The corridor has now recorded four straight weeks of stable or rising rates, supported by strong year-end volumes and early bookings ahead of the Lunar New Year in February 2026.
Drewry noted that December demand has shown double-digit month-on-month growth for three consecutive years, signalling a shift in traditional seasonal patterns.
On Transpacific routes, rates stabilised after sharp increases last week. Shanghai–New York held at $3,293, while Shanghai–Los Angeles remained at $2,474 per container. Drewry expects these routes to stay steady in the near term, with modest upside potential on Asia–Europe lanes.
The latest rebound highlights the ongoing volatility of container markets, as carriers balance capacity management, shifting demand cycles, and persistent geopolitical disruptions.
Source: Gcaptain
