Global Container Freight Rates Continue to Rise – July 13, 2026

Global container freight rates extended their upward trend last week as strong seasonal demand, higher carrier pricing, and ongoing port congestion continued to support shipping costs across major trade routes. Most key trade lanes recorded weekly gains, although the pace of increases varied by region, while a few return routes posted declines.

The Global Container Freight Index increased 7% week-on-week to $3,980 per 40-foot container, reflecting continued strength in international container shipping.

Market conditions remained supportive as the early peak shipping season sustained demand. Shipping lines successfully implemented higher freight charges, including general rate increases and peak season surcharges, while congestion at major Asian transshipment hubs continued to limit effective vessel capacity.

Renewed geopolitical tensions in the Middle East also added uncertainty to global shipping. Although the Strait of Hormuz remains open to commercial traffic, reduced tanker movements and heightened security concerns have increased caution across the shipping industry, contributing to firm freight rates.

Looking ahead, market participants expect freight rates to remain elevated in the near term due to tight vessel capacity, port congestion, and firm carrier pricing. However, some analysts believe the unusually early start to this year's peak season could lead to softer booking activity later in the month. Even so, cargo backlogs and port delays are expected to prevent any significant decline in freight rates in the immediate future.

China/East Asia → North America West Coast

Freight Rate: USD 7,550 / 40' Container
Weekly Change: ▲ 13%

North America West Coast → China/East Asia

Freight Rate: USD 426 / 40' Container
Weekly Change: ▲ 3%

China/East Asia → North America East Coast

Freight Rate: USD 9,140 / 40' Container
Weekly Change: ▲ 6%

North America East Coast → China/East Asia

Freight Rate: USD 533 / 40' Container
Weekly Change: ▼ 6%

China/East Asia → North Europe

Freight Rate: USD 5,831 / 40' Container
Weekly Change: ▲ 8%

North Europe → China/East Asia

Freight Rate: USD 557 / 40' Container
Weekly Change: ▼ 4%

China/East Asia → Mediterranean

Freight Rate: USD 7,160 / 40' Container
Weekly Change: ▲ 1%

Mediterranean → China/East Asia

Freight Rate: USD 669 / 40' Container
Weekly Change: ▲ 37%

North America East Coast → North Europe

Freight Rate: USD 537 / 40' Container
Weekly Change: ▲ 2%

North Europe → North America East Coast

Freight Rate: USD 2,116 / 40' Container
Weekly Change: ▼ 8%

Europe → South America East Coast

Freight Rate: USD 1,297 / 40' Container
Weekly Change: ▲ 4%

Europe → South America West Coast

Freight Rate: USD 2,475 / 40' Container
Weekly Change: ▼ 2%

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