The international shipping market is experiencing renewed pressure as congestion across Asian ports creates vessel delays and pushes container freight rates higher on major US trade routes.
After several weeks of declining freight prices, the market changed direction at the end of July. Stronger demand, reduced short-term capacity, and delayed cargo from Asia have contributed to a significant increase in US ocean freight rates.
The latest SCFI data shows that container freight prices recovered on July 31, reaching 3,205.97 points, an increase of 4.67% compared with the previous week.
The strongest growth came from the North American market:
| Trade Lane | Latest Rate | Weekly Change |
|---|---|---|
| China/Asia → US West Coast | USD 6,229/FEU | +12.53% |
| China/Asia → US East Coast | USD 9,054/FEU | +12.61% |
The rapid increase has made US shipping costs one of the key concerns for global exporters preparing August shipments.
Why Are Asian Ports Experiencing Delays?
Port congestion has become a major factor affecting global supply chains.
Several Asian ports have experienced:
- Vessel schedule disruptions
- Longer terminal waiting times
- Reduced schedule reliability
- Cargo rollover from July into August sailings
Shanghai and Ningbo ports have recently experienced approximately 3–5 days of vessel delays, while Singapore and Malaysia have also reported schedule adjustments.
These disruptions have reduced available shipping capacity in the short term and increased competition for container space.
For manufacturers and exporters, this means early booking and flexible logistics planning are becoming increasingly important.
US Shipping Market Becomes the Focus of August Rate Increases
Carriers are actively managing available capacity through blank sailings and schedule adjustments.
With the August 1 rate increase plans, many shipping lines are targeting North American routes.
The market expects:
US East Coast
The strongest pressure remains on US East Coast services.
Factors include:
- Higher demand during the peak season
- Limited available capacity
- Longer transit alternatives caused by Panama Canal restrictions
Some carrier quotations indicate potential increases above USD 1,000/40HQ.
US West Coast
US West Coast rates have also increased, supported by stronger booking activity and temporary capacity constraints.
However, additional vessel capacity entering the market may limit further increases.
Middle East Routes Rise While Europe Remains Weak
Besides North America, some other regions have also seen rate increases.
According to recent market data:
- Asia–Middle East: USD 4,894/TEU, up 6.77%
- Asia–South America: USD 5,453/TEU, up 5.10%
Meanwhile:
- Asia–Europe: USD 3,039/TEU, down 3.67%
- Asia–Mediterranean: USD 4,189/TEU, down 3.72%
The market continues to show different trends across regions, making accurate freight planning essential.
What Should Importers and Exporters Do Now?
With August approaching, businesses should focus on three key areas:
1. Book Containers Earlier
Due to possible port delays and limited vessel space, late bookings may face:
- Higher freight rates
- Limited sailing options
- Cargo rollover risks
2. Monitor Carrier Capacity Changes
Shipping lines may continue adjusting schedules through:
- Blank sailings
- Vessel changes
- Route optimization
3. Work With an Experienced Logistics Partner
A professional freight forwarder can help identify the best shipping options based on:
- Cost requirements
- Delivery deadlines
- Port conditions
- Market trends
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From China to the USA, Canada, Australia, Europe, and the Middle East, Freights Logistics helps companies reduce shipping risks and optimize international transportation costs.
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