- Drewry’s World Container Index declined 2.6%, marking the fifth straight weekly fall.
- The earlier rate surge linked to US tariffs in April has reversed since mid-June.
- Transpacific spot rates fell this week but remain higher than early May levels.
- Spot rate volatility ahead depends on future US tariffs and Chinese vessel penalties.
Container shipping costs saw a slight decline this week, with Drewry’s World Container Index dropping 2.6% to $2,602 for a 40ft container. The index has long served as a trusted benchmark for global ocean freight rates and index-linked contracts, offering insight across major trade lanes. This data comes from the latest update by Drewry Shipping.
Rate Decline Continues Amid Uncertain Market Outlook
Drewry’s World Container Index (WCI) recorded its fifth straight weekly drop, falling 2.6% this week. The sustained decline follows a short-lived rate surge triggered by the US tariff announcement in April, which initially drove container shipping prices upward through May and early June. Since mid-June, however, rates have steadily fallen, suggesting the initial tariff-related impact has faded.
Transpacific spot rates also declined, with Shanghai–Los Angeles rates dropping 4% to $2,817 per feu, and Shanghai–New York rates falling 6% to $4,539 per feu. Despite the weekly dip, both trade lanes remain above their early May levels, when tariff concerns began to influence pricing—Shanghai to Los Angeles is still up 4%, and Shanghai to New York is up 24% compared to May 8.
Looking ahead, Drewry anticipates further softening in spot rates, driven by weak demand. Their Container Forecaster projects a weaker supply-demand balance in the second half of 2025. The extent and volatility of future rate movements will largely hinge on the implementation of potential new US tariffs and penalties affecting Chinese vessels—factors that remain uncertain.
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Source: Drewry
