Drewry’s World Container Index (WCI) fell 3% this week to $2,246 per 40-foot container, snapping a six-week rally that had been driven by bunker fuel price spikes following the late-February Middle East conflict, according to Drewry’s assessment of April 16, 2026.
Rates declined on both Asia-Europe and Transpacific lanes. Shanghai to New York dropped 3% to $3,552. Shanghai to Los Angeles fell 3% to $2,810. Nine blank sailings have been announced on the Transpacific for next week to support capacity discipline. Several carriers have announced a Peak Season Surcharge of around $2,000 per 40-foot container effective May 1. Drewry expects rates to remain less volatile in the coming weeks ahead of the surcharge implementation.
On Asia-Europe, Shanghai to Rotterdam declined 3% to $2,229. Shanghai to Genoa slipped 2% to $3,343. Only one blank sailing has been announced on the route, suggesting carriers are adding effective capacity. ZIM has announced a new bunker factor of $850 per container effective May 1. Drewry expects rates on this trade to hold steady next week.
The US-led naval blockade around the Strait of Hormuz continues to restrict or halt ships linked to Iran, with multiple vessels turned back. Oil prices remain elevated. Drewry warned that if ongoing negotiations fail, shippers should prepare for reduced schedule reliability, potential port omissions, longer lead times and upward pressure on freight rates.
