Global container spot rates remain at high levels, while carriers introduce significant surcharges and peak‑season fees amid record port congestion and reduced Panama Canal transit slots. Asia–US and India–US lanes show the sharpest increases, supported by strong demand and deliberate capacity management by carriers.
Industry reporting indicates that by mid‑August Shanghai–US West Coast spot rates have climbed to above USD 7,000 per 40‑foot container, while Shanghai–US East Coast rates have breached the USD 10,000 per 40‑foot threshold. On the Asia–North Europe trade, benchmark spot levels are in the USD 4,300–4,900 per FEU range, with a slight downward bias offset by tight capacity. The India–US East Coast corridor stands out, with spot rates assessed at USD 10,000–12,000 per 40HC, driven by strong export demand and constrained vessel availability.
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