The Drewry World Container Index (WCI) has reported a 2% increase this week, bringing the composite index to $2,172 per 40ft container. This marks the third consecutive week of growth, fueled primarily by escalating rates on Transpacific routes and the introduction of emergency fuel surcharges due to volatility in the Middle East.
The Transpacific route saw significant activity this week as carriers adjusted to shifting market pressures. Rates from Shanghai to New York jumped 7% to $3,310, while Shanghai to Los Angeles rose 4% to $2,591 per 40ft container.
Despite the announcement of six blank sailings for the upcoming week on Transpacific East and West Coast routes, Drewry anticipates that continued uncertainty in global supply chains will keep rates on an upward trajectory in the short term.
While Middle Eastern tensions persist, the Asia–Europe trade lane has remained notably stable. Spot rates for Shanghai–Rotterdam edged up 1% to $2,478, while Shanghai–Genoa remained flat at $3,108.
Capacity remains steady with only three blank sailings announced for the next week. However, a significant price hike is on the horizon: carriers including MSC and CMA CGM have announced new Freight All Kinds (FAK) rates ranging from $6,200 to $6,400, effective March 22.
Recent disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz—responsible for nearly 20% of global oil transit—have pushed crude prices higher, leading to immediate operational cost increases for carriers. In response, several major lines have implemented Emergency Bunker Surcharges (EBS):
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CMA CGM: Increased surcharge from $150/TEU to $265/TEU (effective March 16).
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OOCL, COSCO, and Maersk: Confirmed the implementation of temporary EBS measures. “As carriers continue to push for higher rates and navigate rising fuel costs, we expect spot rates to continue their ascent in the coming weeks,” noted Drewry’s latest analysis.
