Drewry’s World Container Index (WCI) increased 2% this week to $1,957 per 40ft container. This marks the second straight weekly gain. Rising spot rates on Asia–Europe routes drove the increase, even as Transpacific rates declined.
The rebound in Transpacific headhaul rates did not last. After a short recovery last week, spot rates fell again. Shanghai–Los Angeles rates dropped 7% to $2,103 per 40ft container. Shanghai–New York rates fell 5% to $2,756.
Drewry’s Container Capacity Insight shows a rise in blank sailings on the Transpacific trade. Carriers have already announced 12 cancellations for next week. They are increasing blank sailings to slow the rate decline, but weak demand is limiting their impact. Most Christmas cargo moved in November, leaving too little volume to support prices. Drewry expects Transpacific rates to soften slightly next week.
Asia–Europe rates moved in the opposite direction. Shanghai–Genoa spot rates surged 13% to $3,004 per 40ft container. Shanghai–Rotterdam rates rose 5% to $2,361. Unlike the Transpacific market, Asia–Europe rates have held steady or climbed for four weeks.
Drewry attributes this strength to shifting seasonal patterns. For three years, December demand has shown double-digit month-on-month growth. These strong year-end volumes are becoming the new normal. With Lunar New Year in February 2026, carriers are already receiving early bookings. Drewry expects slight rate increases on Asia–Europe routes next week.
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