World Container Index – 11 December 2025

DREWRY'S World Container Index (WCI) rose 2% to $1,957 per 40ft container, marking the second consecutive weekly increase. The increase was primarily due to higher spot rates on Asia–Europe trade lanes, despite a contrasting dip in Transpacific freight rates.

Source: Drewry World Container Index

The recovery in Transpacific headhaul rates proved short-lived, after rebounding last week from a low point not seen since January 2025, spot rates declined again this week. Spot rates from Shanghai to Los Angeles declined 7% to $2,103 per 40ft container, while those to New York decreased 5% to $2,756. 

According to Drewry’s Container Capacity Insight, blank sailings on the Transpacific trade lane increased this week and are projected to rise further, with 12 cancellations already announced for next week. Although carriers are increasing these cancellations to prop up falling spot rates, the strategy is struggling due to a lack of volume. Since most Christmas inventory was already shipped in November, there is currently insufficient cargo to support freight rates. Consequently, Drewry expects rates to soften slightly in the coming week.

Source: Drewry World Container Index

Spot rates on the Shanghai–Genoa route saw a double-digit surge, rising 13% to $3,004 per 40ft container, while Shanghai to Rotterdam rates increased by 5% to $2,361. Unlike the Transpacific trade lane, spot rates on the Asia–Europe trade route have successfully maintained stable or rising rate levels for four consecutive weeks. This strength is driven by a shift in seasonal patterns. Over the last three years, Drewry has observed double-digit month-on-month demand growth in December, establishing strong year-end volumes as the "new normal." With the Lunar New Year falling in February 2026, carriers are already seeing early bookings, leading Drewry to forecast further slight rate increases next week.