End-of-Year Container Shipping Update: European Rates Rebound, US Routes Diverge – How Shippers Should Respond

As the year comes to a close, the global container shipping market shows a clear divergence: spot rates on European routes have rebounded after continuous declines, while North American routes display mixed trends due to differing supply-demand dynamics. For shippers engaged in China-US trade, understanding freight rate trends and planning shipments in advance can help control logistics costs and avoid pre-holiday rate fluctuations.

1. Latest Freight Rate Data

As of November 28, the Shanghai Containerized Freight Index (SCFI) stood at 1403.13 points, up 0.7% week-on-week, indicating a generally stable market with slight upward momentum. Key routes include:

European Routes

Shanghai to main European ports: $1404/TEU, up 2.7% WoW

Mediterranean routes: $2232/TEU, up 8.6% WoW

North American Routes

Shanghai to West Coast: $1632/FEU, down 0.8% WoW

Shanghai to East Coast: $2428/FEU, up 1.8% WoW, with the price gap widening to $796

Trans-Pacific Spot Rates

Shanghai to Los Angeles: $2089/FEU, down 4%

Shanghai to New York: $2735/FEU, down 6%

Asia-Europe Spot Rates

Shanghai to Rotterdam: $2165/FEU, down 1%

Shanghai to Genoa: $2300/FEU, down 1%

⚠️ Several carriers have announced FAK rate increases effective December 1, ranging from $3100–$4000/FEU. Meanwhile, Antwerp Port in Belgium is experiencing congestion due to nationwide strikes, which may further push up European spot rates.

2. Market Trend Analysis

European Rates Rebound

Pre-holiday demand recovery and port congestion management by carriers have led to a stabilization and rebound in spot rates.

US Routes Show Divergence

West Coast slightly down, East Coast up, meaning shippers must carefully choose ports and routes to optimize cost and transit time.

Global Capacity Pressure

Xeneta forecasts a 3% growth in container demand for 2026, but fleet capacity is expected to grow 3.6%, increasing the risk of oversupply and rate volatility.

3. Implications for Shippers

Rising Transportation Costs: The rebound in European rates could increase pre-holiday shipping expenses.

Contract Negotiation Challenges: As the annual contract season approaches, carriers may manage capacity more strictly, leading to higher contracted rates.

Flexible Shipment Planning Needed: The widened North America route price gap requires careful port selection based on cargo volume and timing.

High-Risk Routes Require Caution: The return of Red Sea routes poses insurance and navigational risks, which need advance planning.

4. Recommended Strategies for Shippers

Lock in Rates Early: For key Europe and North America routes, secure rates with your freight forwarder to mitigate pre-holiday cost volatility.

Optimize Port and Route Selection: When US West/East Coast price gaps are significant, adjust your port choice according to cargo volume and delivery timing.

Monitor Port Conditions: Congestion or strikes in European ports may cause delays; plan storage and shipping schedules in advance.

Diversify Shipping Risk: Allocate cargo across different routes and carriers to balance risk amid FAK adjustments and spot rate fluctuations.

5. How We Can Help

Year-end shipping fluctuations can be challenging. To ensure your cargo reaches North America and Europe safely, on time, and cost-effectively, we provide:

Real-time freight rate monitoring to identify the best booking windows

Multi-route comparison and optimization strategies

Port congestion risk assessment and mitigation

Customized shipping plans to reduce delays and extra charges

📩 Contact us today to get a tailored shipping solution and ensure your cargo arrives efficiently and economically!