Spot rates on key container shipping routes showed mixed trends last week, according to Xeneta.
Far East to US trades saw notable declines, with average spot rates falling to $1,958 per FEU to the West Coast (–9.1 per cent month-on-month) and $2,667 per FEU to the East Coast (-12.7 per cent month-on-month).
Offered capacity on these routes rose sharply, increasing 11.4 per cent to the West Coast and 11.9 per cent to the East Coast.
The rate spread between the two coasts stabilised at $710, suggesting similar market pressures on both trades.
In contrast, Far East to Europe routes strengthened, with rates rising 18.3 per cent to North Europe (USD 2,335 per FEU) and 26.1 per cent to the Mediterranean ($2,941 per FEU).
Capacity on these trades showed modest growth: +0.4 per cent to North Europe and +4.9 per cent to the Mediterranean.
The Transatlantic route remained largely unchanged, with spot rates holding at $1,585 per FEU and capacity down 1.7 per cent. This indicates that demand and capacity were closely matched last week.
READ: Spot rates surge across Far East trade lanes
Peter Sand, Xeneta Chief Analyst, commented: “Carriers are actively managing capacity and seeing some success. Despite declines on Far East–US trades in November, average spot rates are higher across major fronthauls compared with early October. Strong year-end demand and tender-season sentiment are providing momentum heading into a challenging 2026.”
Sand added that carriers are monitoring developments in the Red Sea, where the potential return of ships is tempered by fragile conditions and insurance concerns. Backhaul services are being tested cautiously due to lower cargo volumes and higher risk designations.
For more details on carrier capacity management across fronthaul trades, Xeneta’s latest blog by Senior Shipping Analyst Emily Stausbøll provides further insights.
For more information:
Xeneta – https://www.xeneta.com/
