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Posted by Amanda Bradfield
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11 June, 2026
I AM still trying to decide what was more unexpected this week: four mullets in a five person checkout queue at my local Coles, or the speed at which freight rates are climbing again. For the record, I've got nothing against a quality mullet; it just felt like the odds were worth mentioning. 🤣
As for those freight rates, the Drewry World Container Index (WCI) rose 3% this week. An early start to peak season appears to be keeping demand, and rates, higher than usual. The latest fortnightly jump certainly has importers on edge for the months ahead.
Adding to the uncertainty in the air, the fragile ceasefire in the Strait of Hormuz has broken down, with fresh US-Iran attacks and tanker incidents off Oman leaving three seafarers missing.
It’s worth mentioning that the latest Container Port Performance Index (CPPI) report noted how geopolitical events such as those unfolding in the Middle East can trigger "burst congestion" at ports. As vessels are delayed, diverted or rescheduled, ports can suddenly face waves of arrivals that strain capacity and spread disruption through global shipping networks.
So, what else is happening out there?
💠NOAA warns of potentially record-strength El Niño
💠AD Ports buys controlling stake in Brazilian terminal operator
💠Hapag-Lloyd (terminal arm) takes stake in Brazilian port project
💠FedEx completes Freight spin-off
💠Port Hedland BHP workers back strike action
💠PepsiCo launches driverless trucking with Gatik
💠Hutchison adds two new quay cranes at Port Botany
💠July launch for Western Sydney International air freight
💠K Line orders four LNG-fuelled car carriers
💠FedEx pilots approve new labour agreement
💠Toll names new Group Managing Director
Today's image is of the container ship Daphne, a recent addition to ONE's WAU service, captured here mid cargo operations at Patrick Terminal. Daphne is a geared vessel, 220m in length, and she turns 20 this year.
It does raise an interesting question: how long is the average container ship staying in service these days? Older industry estimates suggested around 24 years, but it certainly feels like vessels are trading for longer than they once did.
Have a great weekend everyone!
