Spot rates rise sharply as carriers limit capacity
LONDON — Global container spot rates rose sharply again last week, extending a multiweek uptick as carriers pushed through higher pricing on the trans-Pacific and Asia-Europe trade lanes, according to shipping analytics firm Drewry.
Its World Container Index increased 12% to $2,182 per 40-foot container in its latest assessment. The gain marks the third consecutive weekly increase and continues a trend that began earlier this month after rates fell to near-year lows.
Rates across all major lanes saw increases, with routes from Shanghai to New York jumping 19% to $3,293 per 40-foot container, while rates to Los Angeles climbed 18% to $2,474.
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Drewry said carriers have tightened capacity to support pricing, with 10 blank sailings announced for the coming week on the trans-Pacific trade lane. The reduction in available sailings has buoyed rates despite generally soft demand conditions.
Asia-Europe routes also posted gains. Spot rates from Shanghai to Genoa rose 10% to $3,314 per 40-foot container, while Shanghai to Rotterdam increased 8% to $2,539. Rates on the lane have now held stable or moved higher for three consecutive weeks.
Drewry attributed the resilience on Asia-Europe routes to a shift in seasonal demand patterns. Over the past three years, the firm has recorded double-digit month-over-month demand growth in December.
That trend appears to be continuing this year, with carriers already reporting early bookings ahead of the Lunar New Year in February 2026. The earlier-than-usual booking activity has given carriers more leverage to sustain higher spot rates late into the year.
Drewry expects rates to edge up slightly again next week due to continued capacity management and seasonal demand. The firm cautioned that broader market fundamentals remain fragile, with pricing sensitive to any easing of capacity controls or shifts in demand once the holiday-driven surge fades.
