The Drewry World Container Index (WCI) increased 3% this week to US$3,549 per 40ft container as demand strengthened across major East-West trade routes.
Drewry said the peak season has started earlier than usual this year, supporting higher freight rates on both Transpacific and Asia-Europe services.
On the Transpacific trade, spot rates from Shanghai to New York rose 7% to US$5,870 per 40ft container.
Rates from Shanghai to Los Angeles increased 3% to US$4,683 per 40ft container.
Drewry attributed the stronger demand to shippers bringing cargo forward ahead of potential U.S. tariff changes expected in July. Additional cargo demand linked to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has also supported volumes.
Capacity remains relatively stable. Drewry reported only three blank sailings scheduled on the Transpacific trade next week.
Meanwhile, Maersk has announced a Peak Season Surcharge (PSS) of US$1,000 per 20ft container and US$2,000 per 40ft container, effective 17 June.
On the Asia-Europe trade, rates continued to move higher.
Freight rates from Shanghai to Rotterdam increased 5% to US$3,768 per 40ft container.
Rates from Shanghai to Genoa rose 1% to US$5,139 per 40ft container.
Drewry said shippers are accelerating bookings ahead of a bunker fuel adjustment scheduled for 1 July, supporting stronger demand in June.
Carriers have also announced additional rate increases. MSC plans to introduce Freight All Kinds (FAK) rates of US$6,000 per 40ft container on Asia-North Europe services and US$6,500 per 40ft container on Asia-West Mediterranean routes from 15 June.
CMA CGM and ONE have also announced Peak Season Surcharges ranging from US$500 to US$600 per 20ft container.
Drewry expects freight rates to continue rising in the coming weeks.
The consultancy said ongoing Red Sea diversions, earlier inventory replenishment and growing fuel costs are all contributing to stronger market conditions.
