Latest Trends in China–US Ocean Freight: Rates Remain Low, “Peak Season” Momentum Lacks

As we move into August, the China–US shipping market is showing increasingly complex dynamics. In particular, the transpacific trade lanes are diverging in both freight rates and space utilization, with West Coast and East Coast routes exhibiting different patterns.

U.S. West Coast Rates Fluctuate at Low Levels; East Coast Rates Continue to Decline

Recent data indicates that rates on the U.S. West Coast route (UAWC) continue to fluctuate at low levels, showing no significant signs of rebound. In contrast, the U.S. East Coast route (USEC) has seen a further downward trend. The rate gap between the two coasts has now returned to normal levels, reflecting a more balanced market structure.

Space Remains Sufficient; Carriers Face Mounting Pressure

In the first half of the month, overall vessel space remained relatively abundant. The West Coast route showed relatively stable loading rates, although some carriers experienced container rollovers due to insufficient volume. In comparison, the East Coast route faced greater challenges in securing cargo, with carriers under increased pressure to fill space.

Carriers Begin Managing Bookings as Market Sentiment Turns Cautious

As the supply-demand imbalance remains unresolved, some carriers have begun to restrict bookings from long-term contract customers in the second half of the month. Additionally, with uncertainty surrounding the outcome of ongoing China–U.S. tariff negotiations, many shippers are taking a wait-and-see approach. As a result, carriers may continue to face mounting loading pressure in the near term.

Planned Rate Increases Unlikely to Hold; Weak Peak Season Expected to Continue

The General Rate Increase (GRI) originally planned for August 15th now appears unlikely to materialize under current market conditions. Without strong demand to support pricing, the so-called “peak season” is expected to remain muted through the rest of the month. Carriers will need to carefully reassess capacity management strategies to improve operational efficiency.

【PASSIONSHIP Perspective】

In light of the current uncertainty in global trade, we recommend that exporters and freight customers closely monitor market trends, plan shipments in advance, and reserve space early to avoid higher costs and supply chain disruptions.

Shenzhen Passion International Freight Forwarding Co., Ltd. will continue to provide timely updates and reliable logistics solutions. Feel free to contact us for the latest ocean freight rates and booking support.