Asia-US container rates mixed as capacity tightens, import demand slows; tanker rates mostly higher

Rates for shipping containers from east Asia and China to the US were mixed this week as capacity on the trade lane is expected to tighten slightly and import demand is expected to ease.

Rates to the West Coast are between $7,515-8,365/FEU (40-foot equivalent unit) while rates to the East Coast are between $9,600-11,500/FEU, remaining near the highest since mid-2022 for both routes.

Rates from supply chain advisors Drewry were lower, falling by 6% from Shanghai to Los Angeles and by 5% from Shanghai to New York, as shown in the following graph.

Drewry said six blank sailings have been announced for next week, up from five this week, indicating tight capacity. Meanwhile, strong US import demand is easing, which could put further downward pressure on freight rates. Hence, Drewry expects rates to decrease next week.

This story was originally published by Hellenic Shipping News. Read the full story at Hellenic Shipping News →