25.02.25WCI Decreases 10% in Week 8

The World Container Index decreased 10% to $2,795 per FEU in Week 8 this week, which was 24% lower than a year earlier, according to Drewry. The composite index was 73% below the previous pandemic peak of $10,377 per FEU in September 2021 and lowest since May 2024. However, it was 97% above the average of $1,420 per FEU in the pre-pandemic year of 2019.The year-to-date average was $3,465 per FEU, $583 higher than the 10-year average of $2,881 per FEU, which is inflated by the exceptional 2020-22 COVID period.

Freight rates from Shanghai to New York decreased 13%, or $748 to $5,126 per FEU, and those from Shanghai to Los Angeles, 11%, or $504 to $3,888 per FEU. Likewise, rates from Shanghai to Rotterdam reduced 9%, or $269 to $2,618 per FEU, and those from Shanghai to Genoa, 8%, or $326 to $3,837 per FEU. Freight rates from Rotterdam to New York declined 3%, or $69 to $2,394 per FEU. Meanwhile, rates from Rotterdam to Shanghai, from Los Angeles to Shanghai and from New York to Rotterdam all remained stable.

Drewry expects a slight decrease in spot rates next week as capacity increases.