The latest bulletin from the Baltic Exchange highlights a notable shift in container freight dynamics as we enter the pre-Christmas import window and key trade lanes react to fresh policy developments.
The one-year pause in mutual port fees between the U.S. and China appears to have injected renewed optimism into liner companies and shippers, just under seven weeks from Christmas—a critical timing for imports from China to both the U.S. and Europe.
On specific tradelanes:
The China/East Asia → USA West Coast route (FBX01) climbed nearly US $1,000, a surge of approximately 50%, ending the week at US $2,956 per FEU.
The China/East Asia → USA East Coast route (FBX03) was the exception, slipping US $96 to finish at US $3,532.
The China/East Asia → North Europe lane (FBX11) registered a gain of US $167 week-on-week, ending at US $2,426.
The China/East Asia → Mediterranean route (FBX13) jumped US $506 to reach US $2,840. Meanwhile, a key carrier announced service rate increases into the US $3,000s for the second half of November, underlining the competitive pressure in that lane.
For supply-chain and maritime professionals, the data underscores:
- A tightening of capacity and route choices as holiday flow volumes cluster.
- The importance of timing for cargoes to clear pre-Christmas schedules.
- Potential for further rate upside if carriers follow through on announced General Rate Increases (GRIs).
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free Click here to Subscribe!
Source: Baltic Exchange
