Freight Rate Update, June 29, 2026

Global container freight rates continued to move higher during the week ending June 26, although the pace of increases slowed compared to the previous week's strong rally. Freight markets remained supported by healthy cargo demand, particularly on trans-Pacific routes, while vessel availability stayed tight across several key trade lanes.

According to the latest market data, the Global Container Freight Index rose by 5% week-on-week to $3,427 per 40-foot container, extending gains after the sharp increase recorded a week earlier.

The trans-Pacific market remained the main driver of freight strength. Importers continued advancing shipments ahead of potential policy changes, helping sustain strong demand from Asia to North America. At the same time, shipping lines maintained higher freight levels through peak season surcharges and fresh July rate increases.

Although geopolitical concerns surrounding the Middle East remained under observation, their direct impact on container shipping softened during the week. Shipping activity through the region continued despite recent security incidents, while the ceasefire between the US and Iran helped reduce fears of major supply chain disruptions.

Asia-Europe routes also posted gains, though increases were more moderate than those seen on Pacific trades. Meanwhile, several return and Atlantic routes showed mixed performance, indicating that freight strength remains concentrated on major Asia-origin export lanes.

Pacific Routes

China/East Asia → North America West Coast

Freight Rate: $6,175/40ft
Weekly Change: ▲ 8%

North America West Coast → China/East Asia

Freight Rate: $450/40ft
Weekly Change: ▲ 1%

China/East Asia → North America East Coast

Freight Rate: $7,998/40ft
Weekly Change: ▲ 8%

North America East Coast → China/East Asia

Freight Rate: $609/40ft
Weekly Change: No Change

Suez Routes

China/East Asia → North Europe

Freight Rate: $4,883/40ft
Weekly Change: ▲ 3%

North Europe → China/East Asia

Freight Rate: $574/40ft
Weekly Change: No Change

China/East Asia → Mediterranean

Freight Rate: $6,423/40ft
Weekly Change: ▲ 2%

Mediterranean → China/East Asia

Freight Rate: $480/40ft
Weekly Change: ▲ 7%

Atlantic Routes

North America East Coast → North Europe

Freight Rate: $483/40ft
Weekly Change: ▼ 15%

North Europe → North America East Coast

Freight Rate: $2,115/40ft
Weekly Change: ▲ 2%

Europe → South America East Coast

Freight Rate: $1,015/40ft
Weekly Change: ▲ 2%

Europe → South America West Coast

Freight Rate: $2,476/40ft
Weekly Change: ▼ 3%

Looking ahead, freight markets are expected to remain firm in the near term as strong cargo demand, limited vessel space, and upcoming carrier rate hikes continue to support pricing. While easing geopolitical tensions may help stabilize fuel costs, current market direction remains largely driven by demand and capacity fundamentals as the peak shipping season progresses.

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