青岛货代公司 (Qingdao Freight Forwarding Company) – In the ever-evolving landscape of international shipping, Drewry’s World Container Index (WCI) has exhibited a noteworthy trend. As of the week ending August 17th, the WCI rose by 2.3%, reaching $1832.48 per FEU (Forty-foot Equivalent Unit). While this figure reflects a significant 70.6% decline from the same period last year, and an 82% drop from its peak of $10377 in September 2021, it is a positive sign of recovery.
However, when compared to the 10-year average of $2683, the current index is still 32% lower, indicating a gradual return to more stable pricing levels. Notably, this price point is still 29% higher than the pre-pandemic average of $1420 in 2019.
Up to this point in the year, the average composite index stands at $1773 per FEU, trailing the 10-year average by $910 per FEU.
Specifically, the freight rates on the Shanghai-Rotterdam route increased by 6% or $95, reaching $1768 per FEU. This marks the fifth consecutive week of upward movement. Similarly, Shanghai to New York rates rose by 5% or $182, reaching $3545 per FEU. For Rotterdam to Shanghai, freight rates increased by 2% or $13, reaching $539 per FEU, and Shanghai to Genoa rates saw a 1% or $14 increase, reaching $2086 per FEU.
In contrast, Rotterdam to New York rates declined by 1% or $16, totaling $1577 per FEU. This figure reflects a substantial 79% decrease from the peak of $7426 seen in November 2022 and is 20% lower than the same period in 2018, and 33% lower than the corresponding period in 2019.
Furthermore, the spot rates for Shanghai to Los Angeles, Los Angeles to Shanghai, and New York to Rotterdam remained unchanged from the previous week. Drewry forecasts that in the upcoming weeks, spot rates for both Eastbound and Westbound routes are expected to remain stable across most trade lanes. This resilience in pricing suggests an industry that continues to adapt and respond to challenges while maintaining a semblance of stability.
