Freight Rate Update, August 3, 2026

Global container freight rates remained largely stable for the second consecutive week, with only limited fluctuations across major trade routes. According to the latest Freightos FBX data, the market continued to move within a narrow range as softer shipping demand was offset by carriers' disciplined capacity management.

The Freightos FBX Global Container Freight Index declined by 1% week on week to $3,628 per 40ft container, following a steeper 5% correction in the previous week. The slower decline suggests that freight markets are entering a more balanced phase after recent volatility.

Market fundamentals remained broadly unchanged. Weak cargo demand continued to pressure east-west trade lanes following an early peak shipping season and the implementation of new US tariff measures. To support freight rates, shipping lines continued using blank sailings and service adjustments, with additional capacity reductions planned on Transpacific routes next week and similar measures continuing on Asia-Europe services.

Meanwhile, shipping conditions in the Middle East showed gradual improvement despite ongoing geopolitical tensions. Vessel movements through the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandab Strait increased compared with previous weeks, while Qatar resumed LNG exports through Hormuz after a three-week interruption. Although security concerns remain, the gradual return of commercial vessels suggests improving confidence among shipowners.

Looking ahead, freight rates are expected to remain relatively stable. Softer demand and additional vessel capacity may continue to weigh on spot rates, but carrier discipline, geopolitical uncertainty, and evolving global trade policies are likely to prevent any sharp decline in freight markets.

Major Freight Rate Updates (Effective July 31, 2026)

China/East Asia → North America West Coast
Freight Rate: USD 6,212 per 40ft Container
Weekly Change: ▼ 1%

North America West Coast → China/East Asia
Freight Rate: USD 429 per 40ft Container
Weekly Change: ▼ 1%

China/East Asia → North America East Coast
Freight Rate: USD 9,002 per 40ft Container
Weekly Change: No Change

North America East Coast → China/East Asia
Freight Rate: USD 520 per 40ft Container
Weekly Change: ▼ 9%

China/East Asia → North Europe
Freight Rate: USD 5,575 per 40ft Container
Weekly Change: ▼ 1%

North Europe → China/East Asia
Freight Rate: USD 541 per 40ft Container
Weekly Change: ▼ 2%

China/East Asia → Mediterranean
Freight Rate: USD 6,697 per 40ft Container
Weekly Change: ▼ 2%

Mediterranean → China/East Asia
Freight Rate: USD 675 per 40ft Container
Weekly Change: ▼ 1%

North America East Coast → North Europe
Freight Rate: USD 524 per 40ft Container
Weekly Change: ▼ 5%

North Europe → North America East Coast
Freight Rate: USD 2,067 per 40ft Container
Weekly Change: ▲ 4%

Europe → South America East Coast
Freight Rate: USD 1,250 per 40ft Container
Weekly Change: No Change

Europe → South America West Coast
Freight Rate: USD 2,468 per 40ft Container
Weekly Change: No Change

Overall, freight markets remained stable during the week, with only selective route-specific changes. While most major trade lanes recorded slight declines, carriers' continued capacity management and improving shipping activity in the Middle East helped keep the broader market balanced.

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