The Drewry World Container Index (WCI) fell for the second consecutive week, declining 4% to US$4,374 per 40ft container. The decrease was driven by weaker freight rates on the Asia–Europe and Transpacific trade lanes.
Drewry said increased vessel capacity and easing demand continued to put pressure on spot rates.
Transpacific rates fall
Spot rates from Shanghai to Los Angeles fell 6% to US$5,878 per 40ft container. Rates from Shanghai to New Yorkdeclined 4% to US$7,598.
According to Drewry, carriers will operate six blank sailings on the Transpacific trade next week, compared with ninethis week. The reduction in blank sailings means more capacity will enter the market.
Drewry expects Transpacific freight rates to remain stable next week.
Asia–Europe market weakens
Freight rates from Shanghai to Genoa dropped 5% to US$5,988 per 40ft container. Rates from Shanghai to Rotterdam decreased 1% to US$4,824.
Drewry said four blank sailings are scheduled on the Asia–Europe trade next week, compared with two the previous week. The additional capacity, combined with softer demand, is expected to push rates slightly lower.
Geopolitical uncertainty remains
The consultancy noted that tensions between the United States and Iran, together with concerns over the Strait of Hormuz, have prompted several carriers to introduce Emergency Fuel Surcharges (EFS) from August 2026.
At the same time, uncertainty remains over US trade policy. The current 10% global US import tariffs are due to expire on 24 July, while new tariffs are expected to take effect in early August.
Drewry said these developments could continue to influence freight markets in the coming weeks.
The latest World Container Index stood at US$4,374 per 40ft container, down 4% from the previous week. Freight rates from Shanghai to Rotterdam declined 1% to US$4,824, while Shanghai to Genoa fell 5% to US$5,988. On the Transpacific trade, rates from Shanghai to Los Angeles dropped 6% to US$5,878, and Shanghai to New Yorkdecreased 4% to US$7,598. Backhaul routes remained relatively stable, with Rotterdam to Shanghai at US$607, Los Angeles to Shanghai increasing 2% to US$839, New York to Rotterdam rising 1% to US$1,050, and Rotterdam to New York easing 1% to US$2,635.
