The Drewry World Container Index (WCI) for the week ending 12 December 2024 showed stability, remaining at $3,529 per 40ft container. This marks a dramatic decline from the peak rates experienced during the pandemic but still significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels, reflecting a balance between global demand and supply in shipping.
Photo: Dreamstime.
According to Drewry, freight rates on major routes showed mixed movements. Rates from New York to Rotterdam and Shanghai to Rotterdam saw modest increases, while Shanghai to Los Angeles experienced a slight decline. Other key routes, such as Rotterdam to Shanghai and Shanghai to Genoa, edged upwards. Overall, Drewry anticipates that spot rates will remain steady in the coming week, indicating a period of relative calm in the volatile shipping sector.
Table: Drewry.
The average shipping costs for 2024 remain above historical norms, bolstered by lingering effects from the disruptions of recent years. However, they are gradually aligning with long-term trends, providing more predictability for businesses dependent on maritime trade.
More information:
Drewry
www.drewry.co.uk