Freight Rate Update, August 10, 2026

According to Freightos Terminal FBX data, global container freight markets showed mixed movements last week. Transpacific headhaul rates strengthened, while China-to-Europe routes continued to decline. Backhaul services remained under pressure, particularly on the Mediterranean-to-Asia route, although North America East Coast-to-Asia rates moved slightly higher. Transatlantic routes also diverged, with Europe-to-North America rates increasing while the reverse direction weakened.

The Freightos FBX Global Container Freight Index fell 1% week over week to $3,607 per 40-foot container, marking its second consecutive weekly decline.

Market sentiment remained mixed as carriers continued to monitor developments around the Strait of Hormuz. Although expectations of a potential reopening have improved, traffic is expected to recover gradually, and the situation remains uncertain. A reopening could eventually reduce pressure on oil and bunker fuel costs, although peak-season demand remains the key factor influencing container freight rates.

The transpacific market remained relatively resilient. Asia-to-US East Coast rates stayed close to recent highs, while Asia-to-US West Coast rates recovered following August general rate increases. In contrast, Asia-to-Europe rates continued to weaken as demand softened, despite carriers maintaining capacity discipline through blank sailings.

Congestion at major Chinese ports also remained a concern following recent typhoon-related disruptions. Geopolitical developments and changes in US trade policies are expected to continue influencing freight market conditions in the near term.

Among the 13 major routes tracked, Mediterranean-to-China/East Asia recorded the sharpest weekly decline of 32%, followed by North America West Coast-to-China/East Asia at 12% and North America East Coast-to-North Europe at 11%. On the upside, China/East Asia-to-North America West Coast increased 11%, while North Europe-to-North America East Coast rose 4%.

Key Freight Rates — Effective August 7, 2026

China/East Asia → North America West Coast
Current Rate: $6,212/40' container
Weekly Change: ▲ 11%

North America West Coast → China/East Asia
Current Rate: $429/40' container
Weekly Change: ▼ 12%

China/East Asia → North America East Coast
Current Rate: $9,002/40' container
Weekly Change: ▲ 1%

North America East Coast → China/East Asia
Current Rate: $520/40' container
Weekly Change: ▲ 3%

China/East Asia → North Europe
Current Rate: $5,575/40' container
Weekly Change: ▼ 8%

North Europe → China/East Asia
Current Rate: $541/40' container
Weekly Change: ▼ 2%

China/East Asia → Mediterranean
Current Rate: $6,697/40' container
Weekly Change: ▼ 7%

Mediterranean → China/East Asia
Current Rate: $675/40' container
Weekly Change: ▼ 32%

North America East Coast → North Europe
Current Rate: $524/40' container
Weekly Change: ▼ 11%

North Europe → North America East Coast
Current Rate: $2,067/40' container
Weekly Change: ▲ 4%

Europe → South America East Coast
Current Rate: $1,250/40' container
Weekly Change: No Change

Europe → South America West Coast
Current Rate: $2,468/40' container
Weekly Change: No Change

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