Drewry’s World Container Index (WCI) rose +3% WoW to $1,746 per 40ft container, marking a second straight weekly increase after 17 consecutive declines, driven by mid-October General Rate Increases (GRIs) on major routes.

• Shanghai–Los Angeles rates climbed +4% WoW to $2,290, while Shanghai–New York rose +6% to $3,420, supported by recent GRIs and seasonal pricing actions.

• Asia–Europe lanes strengthened further, with Shanghai–Rotterdam up +4% to $1,736 and Shanghai–Genoa up +2% to $1,855, as carriers sought to firm prices ahead of contract negotiations.

• The composite index, though higher for two consecutive weeks, remains -44% YoY, reflecting significant price erosion versus 2024 levels.

• Backhaul and transatlantic routes showed little movement; Rotterdam–New York fell -4% to $1,720, while Rotterdam–Shanghai edged up +1% to $458.

• Drewry noted that carriers plan new GRIs for November 1 and 15, targeting FAK rates between $2,600 and $2,700 per 40ft container to stabilize pricing.

• Despite the short-term rebound, Drewry’s Container Forecaster expects the supply-demand balance to weaken in coming quarters, leading to renewed rate pressure.