Drewry WCI dips 2.4% as spot rates fall on major trade routes

Spot rates on the Transpacific headhaul route continued to decrease for the third consecutive week. Rates from Shanghai to New York dropped 6 per cent to $2,735 per 40-foot container, while rates to Los Angeles fell 4 per cent to $2,089. According to Drewry’s Container Capacity Insight, blank sailings on the Transpacific trade are expected to decline next week, potentially increasing available capacity. As a result, Drewry anticipates a slight softening in rates next week.

After six consecutive weeks of increases, spot rates on the Asia–Europe trade route declined this week. Rates from Shanghai to Genoa and Rotterdam fell 1 per cent to $2,300 and $2,165 per 40-foot container, respectively. Carriers on this route are attempting to lift spot rates by introducing higher FAK levels ranging from $3,100 to $4,000 per 40-foot container, effective December 01, 2025. This move aims to bolster spot rates ahead of the annual contract negotiation season.

Freight rates from New York to Rotterdam rose 2 per cent to $925, while rates from Rotterdam to New York increased 1 per cent to $1,664. Rates between Rotterdam and Shanghai declined 2 per cent to $451, while Los Angeles to Shanghai held steady at $720 per 40-foot container.

The national strike in Belgium has disrupted port operations and heightened congestion at the Port of Antwerp. Congestion is expected to worsen as some carriers plan to return to the Suez Canal route, further straining port efficiency, causing longer delays and pushing spot rates higher.

Drewry’s Container Forecaster expects the supply–demand balance to weaken over the next few quarters, particularly if normal Suez Canal transits resume.

ALCHEMPro News Desk (KUL)