Ex-China freight rates surge as US routes hit near 12-month highs, Europe lanes approach 2026 peaks

China/East Asia → US West Coast:
$3,181/FEU (Up 13% WoW | Up 73% vs pre-war levels)

China/East Asia → US East Coast:
$4,864/FEU (Up 14% WoW | Up 61% vs pre-war levels)

China/East Asia → North Europe:
$2,895/FEU (Up 3% WoW | Up 18% vs pre-war levels)

China/East Asia → Mediterranean:
$4,387/FEU (Up 20% WoW | Up 20% vs pre-war levels)

Container freight rates from China continued to move higher, with transpacific routes recording the strongest gains and reaching their highest levels since July 2025. Europe and Mediterranean routes also strengthened further, moving close to their highest levels of 2026.

Market sources said the latest rally has been supported by limited vessel availability, carrier-led freight hikes, Red Sea shipping disruptions, and early peak-season cargo movement. Freight levels across major trade lanes are now well above the levels seen before the regional conflict began.

US-bound routes showed the sharpest recovery this week, with both West Coast and East Coast lanes posting double-digit increases. Market participants noted that the recent rise reflects not only higher operating costs but also improving market sentiment and stronger expectations for upcoming demand.

Freight rates to Europe also remained firm. Mediterranean routes recorded particularly strong growth during the week, while North Europe trades continued to rise steadily. Earlier this month, Europe-bound rates had started losing the gains created by the Red Sea crisis, but the last few weeks brought renewed upward momentum.

Industry players said longer transit times caused by vessel diversions around the Red Sea have changed buying patterns, encouraging importers to place orders earlier to avoid delays before the year-end holiday season. Mediterranean trades appear to be reacting more strongly to this trend.

Shipping lines are also continuing efforts to support freight levels through higher FAK rates, peak-season surcharges, blank sailings, and tighter capacity management. Reports of stronger bookings on several Asia-origin routes have further supported the market.

However, market participants remain cautious about whether the rally can sustain over the longer term. While freight sentiment has improved, some players believe the market still depends heavily on carrier supply discipline, as growing global shipping capacity will eventually require stronger real cargo demand to maintain current rate levels.

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