Drewry: World Container Index Up 5% Last Week
For many years, World Container Index (WCI) has been the go-to, independent, global reference for index-linked contracts. If your organisation requires regional visibility/coverage beyond the eight trade lanes provided below, contact the team. Our detailed assessment for Thursday, 03 Sep 2026 • The Drewry World Container Index (WCI), the benchmark widely referenced by procurement teams, ...
The World Container Index (WCI) remained steady at $4,465 per 40ft container last week, as the growth in Transpacific routes was balanced by a decline in Asia-Europe routes. Spot rates from Shanghai to Los Angeles surged 5% to $7,185 per container, while those from Shanghai to New York grew 3% to $9,587. Drewry forecasts freight rates to stay stable next week, given robust demand and reduced carrier capacity.
Blank sailings on the Asia-Europe route dropped, with rates from Shanghai to Genoa falling 10% to $4,368 and from Shanghai to Rotterdam decreasing 5% to $4,092. Ocean carriers are boosting transits through the Suez Canal, but rerouting via the Cape of Good Hope incurs high costs and delays. Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East persist, with attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz continuing.
Typhoon Saudel has caused congestion in Chinese ports, while Panama Canal drought restrictions limit capacity to 34 transits per day in early September.
Written by urgent.news from Hellenic Shipping News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.