- Container Shipping Closes 2025 With Tight Capacity Control.
- Blank Sailings and Rate Swings Shape Container Markets.
- Managed Capacity Keeps Container Shipping on Edge.
As we approach the end of 2025, the container shipping industry is wrapping up the year much as it started, full of ups and downs, tightly controlled, and more swayed by operational strategies than by a clear increase in demand, reports Drewry.
Capacity Management Takes Centre Stage
In the next five weeks, spanning from week 52 of 2025 to week 04 of 2026, shipping carriers have announced 53 cancelled sailings out of a total of 704 scheduled departures, which is about 8% of all sailings. Even with these cancellations, 92% of the sailings are still on track.
Trade Lanes Most Affected
The majority of these blank sailings are happening on the Transatlantic westbound route, which makes up 45% of the cancellations. Following closely is the Transpacific eastbound route at 38%, while the Asia–Europe and Mediterranean routes account for the remaining 17%.
December and Early January Adjustments
In December alone, there were 75 cancelled sailings, which effectively increased the available capacity by around 2% compared to the previous month. Additionally, another 35 blank sailings have already been announced for early January, suggesting a further 7% boost in available capacity.
Schedule Reliability Shows Modest Improvement
Drewry’s On-Time Performance saw a slight uptick in November, climbing by 1% from October to reach 49%. The coverage for schedule reliability has now been broadened to include the Transatlantic and South Asia–North Europe and Mediterranean trades, in addition to the Asia–Europe and Transpacific routes.
Red Sea and Geopolitical Uncertainty
As we look ahead, there’s growing concern about potential risks in early 2026, especially regarding the possible return of vessels to the Red Sea and Suez Canal. While no specific timelines have been set, even a gradual return could free up significant capacity and put additional pressure on already congested European ports. Broader geopolitical events, including tentative talks about a potential peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia, continue to influence market sentiment.
Freight Rates on the Rise
Drewry’s World Container Index saw a significant jump of 12% week-on-week, reaching $2,182 for a 40ft container as of December 18. Rates for Asia–Europe and the Mediterranean increased by 9%, while Transpacific rates surged by 19%. In contrast, Transatlantic pricing remained relatively stable.
Looking Ahead for Shippers
As we approach 2026, it’s crucial for shippers to stay flexible and keep a close eye on developments. We can expect capacity growth, operational uncertainties, and geopolitical risks to continue into the new year.
Year-End Wrap-Up
This is our last publication for 2025. We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to our readers for their ongoing support. Wishing you a peaceful holiday season and a prosperous start to the New Year!
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Source: Drewry
