Container intelligence
Global Container Market Intelligence — August 12, 2026
As of 2026-08-12 (UTC) · Updated daily
Publication Date: 2026-08-12 Publication Time: 2026-08-12T18:30:27.096Z Research Cut-Off: 2026-08-12T18:30:27.096Z Primary Research Window: Previous 24 hours Extended Research Window: Up to 7 days where necessary Latest indexed observation date (if available): 06 Aug 2026 External sources in register: 12 Edition Gate: VERIFIED_DAILY Method: External market facts are sourced from public internet origins; GCN verifies, synthesizes and provides editorial analysis — GCN is not the original measurement source of third-party indices.
60-second executive summary: The Drewry World Container Index (WCI) increased by 1% to $4,297 per 40ft container, driven by higher rates on Transpacific routes. Shanghai to New York rates rose 4% to $7,893, while Shanghai to Los Angeles rates increased 3% to $5,894. Port congestion in China continues to support freight rates. Eight blank sailings are scheduled for next week, indicating stable capacity. The Freightos Baltic Index (FBX) is at $3,607 with 0.58% volatility.
GCN Market Pulse (editorial)
The container market is experiencing a rebound in freight rates, particularly on Transpacific routes, supported by successful General Rate Increases (GRIs) and ongoing port congestion in China. The stability in blank sailings suggests a balanced capacity environment.
| Voce | Segnale | Nota |
|---|---|---|
| Freight Rates | ↑ | Index direction · as of 06 Aug 2026 |
| Market Volatility | Moderate | From index moves |
| Market Temperature | FIRMING | From freight-rate direction |
Global Container Data Board
VERIFIED EXTERNAL FACTS: Index/lane values from publicly accessible sources in the fact bundle. These are not proprietary GCN measurements. Verified index/lane signals (data date 06 Aug 2026): Shanghai–Los Angeles: USD 5,894 per 40 ft (+3%); Shanghai–New York: USD 7,893 per 40 ft (+4%); Freightos Baltic Index (FBX): USD 3,607.00 (0.58% volatility).
| Voce | Segnale | Δ | Nota |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shanghai–Los Angeles | USD 5,894 per 40 ft | +3% | Drewry WCI assessment · Data date: 06 Aug 2026 · Frequency: check source (often weekly for WCI) |
| Shanghai–New York | USD 7,893 per 40 ft | +4% | Drewry WCI assessment · Data date: 06 Aug 2026 · Frequency: check source (often weekly for WCI) |
| Freightos Baltic Index (FBX) | USD 3,607.00 | 0.58% volatility | Freightos public FBX · Frequency: check source (often weekly for WCI) |
Market Temperature (GCN editorial assessment)
The market is currently warm with upward pressure on rates due to GRIs and port congestion, particularly affecting Transpacific routes.
Top Market Moves — Last 24 Hours
VERIFIED FACT: Commercially relevant moves below are taken from the current index/lane fact bundle. Mark NEW only if the observation date changed vs the previous edition; otherwise UPDATED/ONGOING.
- #1 Shanghai–Los Angeles: USD 5,894 per 40 ft (+3%) · Source/data date: 06 Aug 2026. Status: UPDATED (latest available observation — not necessarily a same-day print). Confidence: HIGH.
- #2 Shanghai–New York: USD 7,893 per 40 ft (+4%) · Source/data date: 06 Aug 2026. Status: UPDATED (latest available observation — not necessarily a same-day print). Confidence: HIGH.
- #3 Freightos Baltic Index (FBX): USD 3,607.00 (0.58% volatility). Status: UPDATED (latest available observation — not necessarily a same-day print). Confidence: HIGH.
Freight Rate Intelligence
The Drewry World Container Index (WCI), the benchmark widely referenced by procurement teams, rebounded after three consecutive weeks of decline, edging up 1% to $4,297 per 40ft container. The increase was supported by higher rates on Transpacific trade routes. On the Transpacific trade route, spot rates from Shanghai to New York rose 4% to $7,893 per 40ft container, while rates from Shanghai to Los Angeles increased 3% to $5,894 per 40ft. Carriers successfully implemented GRIs as volumes held firm into August. Meanwhile, port congestion across central and south China continued to constrain capacity, providing further support to freight rates. According to Drewry's Container Capacity Insight , eight blank sailings are scheduled for next week, unchanged from this week and indicating stable available capacity in the market. As a result, Drewry expects the volatility in rates to reduce in the coming week. On the Asia–Europe trade route, spot rates remained stable this week. Freight rates from Shanghai to Genoa fell 2% to $5,506 per 40ft container and those from Shanghai to Rotterdam held steady at $4,653 per 40ft container. According to Drewry’s Container Capacity Insight , three blank sailings were recorded this week and the same number is scheduled for next week on the Asia–Europe trade lane. As carriers continue to manage available capacity, Drewry expects rates to remain stable next week. The East–West container freight market remained volatile amid Middle East tensions, new US tariffs and congestion at Asian ports. Iran and the US resumed hostilities in late July, increasing uncertainty over shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and prompting several carriers to introduce Emergency Fuel Surcharges (EFS) from August. Meanwhile, carriers continued to manage capacity thr Drewry notes ongoing Hormuz / US–Iran tension with carriers announcing Emergency Fuel Surcharges (EFS). Freightos Baltic Index (FBX) currently around USD 3,607.00 (volatility 0.58%).
VERIFIED EXTERNAL FACT: Latest available index observation date in sourced material: 06 Aug 2026. Weekly/monthly prints keep this date — not automatically "today".
| Voce | Segnale | Δ | Nota |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shanghai–Los Angeles | USD 5,894 per 40 ft | +3% | Drewry WCI assessment, Data date: 06 Aug 2026 |
| Shanghai–New York | USD 7,893 per 40 ft | +4% | Drewry WCI assessment, Data date: 06 Aug 2026 |
| Freightos Baltic Index (FBX) | USD 3,607.00 | 0.58% volatility | Freightos public FBX |
Carrier Capacity & Blank Sailings
Eight blank sailings are scheduled for next week, unchanged from this week, indicating stable available capacity in the market.
Port & Terminal Intelligence
Port congestion across central and south China continues to constrain capacity, providing further support to freight rates.
Physical Container Equipment
No material verified change identified in physical container equipment availability — no depot/transaction prices in the fact bundle. Verified index/lane signals (data date 06 Aug 2026): Shanghai–Los Angeles: USD 5,894 per 40 ft (+3%); Shanghai–New York: USD 7,893 per 40 ft (+4%); Freightos Baltic Index (FBX): USD 3,607.00 (0.58% volatility). GCN ANALYSIS: Do not infer a confirmed box shortage from freight rates or congestion alone (NO VERIFIED SHORTAGE SIGNAL). Confidence: LOW–MEDIUM.
Container Prices & Leasing
No material verified change identified in physical container purchase/leasing prices — no depot/transaction prices in the fact bundle. Verified index/lane signals (data date 06 Aug 2026): Shanghai–Los Angeles: USD 5,894 per 40 ft (+3%); Shanghai–New York: USD 7,893 per 40 ft (+4%); Freightos Baltic Index (FBX): USD 3,607.00 (0.58% volatility). GCN ANALYSIS: Do not infer a confirmed box shortage from freight rates or congestion alone (NO VERIFIED SHORTAGE SIGNAL). Confidence: LOW–MEDIUM.
Carrier, Lessor & Manufacturer Moves
No material verified change identified in this domain since the previous edition. Verified index/lane signals (data date 06 Aug 2026): Shanghai–Los Angeles: USD 5,894 per 40 ft (+3%); Shanghai–New York: USD 7,893 per 40 ft (+4%); Freightos Baltic Index (FBX): USD 3,607.00 (0.58% volatility). GCN ANALYSIS: Keep focus on Transpacific vs Asia–Europe divergence and the next index/capacity release. Confidence: LOW–MEDIUM.
Demand & Trade Flows
No material verified change identified in this domain since the previous edition. Verified index/lane signals (data date 06 Aug 2026): Shanghai–Los Angeles: USD 5,894 per 40 ft (+3%); Shanghai–New York: USD 7,893 per 40 ft (+4%); Freightos Baltic Index (FBX): USD 3,607.00 (0.58% volatility). GCN ANALYSIS: Keep focus on Transpacific vs Asia–Europe divergence and the next index/capacity release. Confidence: LOW–MEDIUM.
Schedule Reliability
No material verified change identified in schedule reliability (typically a monthly series). No current monthly print in the fact bundle — therefore no same-day measurement. Verified index/lane signals (data date 06 Aug 2026): Shanghai–Los Angeles: USD 5,894 per 40 ft (+3%); Shanghai–New York: USD 7,893 per 40 ft (+4%); Freightos Baltic Index (FBX): USD 3,607.00 (0.58% volatility). GCN ANALYSIS: Treat reliability as a watch item until the next primary publication. Confidence: LOW.
Regional Market Intelligence
No material verified change identified in this domain since the previous edition. Verified index/lane signals (data date 06 Aug 2026): Shanghai–Los Angeles: USD 5,894 per 40 ft (+3%); Shanghai–New York: USD 7,893 per 40 ft (+4%); Freightos Baltic Index (FBX): USD 3,607.00 (0.58% volatility). GCN ANALYSIS: Keep focus on Transpacific vs Asia–Europe divergence and the next index/capacity release. Confidence: LOW–MEDIUM.
Trade, Customs & Tariffs
No material verified change identified in this domain since the previous edition. Verified index/lane signals (data date 06 Aug 2026): Shanghai–Los Angeles: USD 5,894 per 40 ft (+3%); Shanghai–New York: USD 7,893 per 40 ft (+4%); Freightos Baltic Index (FBX): USD 3,607.00 (0.58% volatility). GCN ANALYSIS: Keep focus on Transpacific vs Asia–Europe divergence and the next index/capacity release. Confidence: LOW–MEDIUM.
Disruption Radar
No material verified change identified in this domain since the previous edition. Verified index/lane signals (data date 06 Aug 2026): Shanghai–Los Angeles: USD 5,894 per 40 ft (+3%); Shanghai–New York: USD 7,893 per 40 ft (+4%); Freightos Baltic Index (FBX): USD 3,607.00 (0.58% volatility). GCN ANALYSIS: Keep focus on Transpacific vs Asia–Europe divergence and the next index/capacity release. Confidence: LOW–MEDIUM.
GCN Editorial Analysis
The container market is currently experiencing upward pressure on rates due to successful GRIs and ongoing port congestion in China. The stability in blank sailings suggests a balanced capacity environment, which may help moderate rate volatility in the near term.
Commercial Implications
For shippers, the current rate increases on Transpacific routes may necessitate budget adjustments. Carriers are likely to benefit from the successful implementation of GRIs, while forwarders should monitor capacity closely to optimize routing.
Early Warning Radar
Watchlist based on verified freight-index signals and known publication cycles (WCI often weekly). Verified index/lane signals (data date 06 Aug 2026): Shanghai–Los Angeles: USD 5,894 per 40 ft (+3%); Shanghai–New York: USD 7,893 per 40 ft (+4%); Freightos Baltic Index (FBX): USD 3,607.00 (0.58% volatility).
- Monitor geopolitical developments, particularly in the Middle East, as they may impact shipping routes and costs.
Next 7 Days
Watchlist based on verified freight-index signals and known publication cycles (WCI often weekly). Verified index/lane signals (data date 06 Aug 2026): Shanghai–Los Angeles: USD 5,894 per 40 ft (+3%); Shanghai–New York: USD 7,893 per 40 ft (+4%); Freightos Baltic Index (FBX): USD 3,607.00 (0.58% volatility).
- Eight blank sailings scheduled, indicating stable capacity.
2–4 Week Outlook
Rates are expected to remain stable with potential for slight increases if demand holds and geopolitical tensions persist.
Executive Action Points
Shippers should consider locking in rates to mitigate potential increases. Carriers should continue to monitor capacity and geopolitical developments.
- Lock in current rates if possible to avoid potential increases.
- Monitor geopolitical developments closely.
Data Quality & Verification
Research cut-off was August 12, 2026. Data sourced from Drewry and Freightos. No unverified data used.
Sources & References
Source register of public internet origins actually used for this edition (12). Open the original pages to verify. GCN is the research/synthesis/analysis layer — not the originator of external market measurements.
- 1. drewry.co.uk — Published/data: 06 Aug 2026. Used for: freight_rates, parsed_index, drewry-wci. Original: https://www.drewry.co.uk/supply-chain-advisors/supply-chain-expertise/world-container-index-assessed-by-drewry · Type: Industry Research
- 2. fbx.freightos.com — Used for: freight_rates, parsed_index, freightos-fbx. Original: https://fbx.freightos.com/ · Type: Industry Research
- 3. drewry.co.uk — Used for: freight_rates, drewry, news. Original: https://www.drewry.co.uk/news · Type: Industry Research
- 4. joc.com — Used for: business_news, joc. Original: https://www.joc.com/maritime-news · Type: Industry Research
- 5. maersk.com — Used for: shipping_lines, maersk. Original: https://www.maersk.com/news · Type: Industry Research
- 6. en.sse.net.cn — Used for: freight_rates, scfi, sse, frequency_note. Original: https://en.sse.net.cn/indices/introduction_scfi.jsp · Type: Industry Research
- 7. en.sse.net.cn — Used for: freight_rates, ccfi, sse. Original: https://en.sse.net.cn/indices/ccfinew.jsp · Type: Industry Research
- 8. portoflosangeles.org — Used for: port_operations, los_angeles, teu. Original: https://www.portoflosangeles.org/business/statistics · Type: Primary
- 9. portofrotterdam.com — Used for: port_operations, rotterdam. Original: https://www.portofrotterdam.com/en/news-and-press-releases · Type: Primary
- 10. hafen-hamburg.de — Used for: port_operations, hamburg. Original: https://www.hafen-hamburg.de/en/press/ · Type: Primary
- 11. tritoninternational.com — Used for: leasing, triton. Original: https://www.tritoninternational.com/investors · Type: Industry Research
- 12. cimc.com — Used for: manufacturing, cimc. Original: https://www.cimc.com/en/index.php · Type: Industry Research
Knowledge
Reference notes on container types, markets and trade corridors.
- drewry-wci-parsed
https://www.drewry.co.uk/supply-chain-advisors/supply-chain-expertise/world-container-index-assessed-by-drewry
{"asOf":"06 Aug 2026","narrative":["The Drewry World Container Index (WCI), the benchmark widely referenced by procurement teams, rebounded after three consecutive weeks of decline, edging up 1% to $4,297 per 40ft container. The increase was supported by higher rates on Transpac…
- freightos-fbx-parsed
https://fbx.freightos.com/
{"asOf":null,"narrative":["Freightos Baltic Index (FBX) currently around USD 3,607.00 (volatility 0.58%)."],"rates":[{"label":"Freightos Baltic Index (FBX)","value":"USD 3,607.00","change":"0.58% volatility","source":"Freightos","note":"Freightos public FBX"}]}
- drewry-home-news
https://www.drewry.co.uk/news
Learn more Strong growth in earnings for global terminal operators led to a surge in capital investment during 2025 17 Jul 2026 17 Jul 2026: Global port throughput volumes in 2025 demonstrated remarkable resilience, rising 6.5% YoY to 994 mteu, despite challenging geopolitical c…
- joc-container
https://www.joc.com/maritime-news
Subsections Container Shipping News Breakbulk News Port News The latest Maritime News & Analysis Low water on Rhine risks pushing bottlenecks back to Rotterdam, Antwerp Greg Knowler, Senior Editor Europe | Logistics executives raised concerns that congestion building across heav…
- maersk-press
https://www.maersk.com/news
East Coast for regulated produce 23 Jul 2026 Case studies How Caroma and Maersk Transformed a Freight Relationship into a Strategic Supply Chain Partnership 21 Jul 2026 Events Deliver quality avocados no matter the distance 20 Jul 2026 Press releases Maersk strengthens integrate…
- sse-scfi-intro
https://en.sse.net.cn/indices/introduction_scfi.jsp
Shanghai Shipping Exchange Institute(Prep.) Home About us Freight Indices Freight Rate Filing About SCFI © 2001-2026Shanghai Shipping Exchange Institute(Prep.) All Rights Reserved. Contact us 沪ICP备2026028769号-2
- sse-indices-hub
https://en.sse.net.cn/indices/ccfinew.jsp
Shanghai Shipping Exchange Institute(Prep.) 进入中文版 Home About us Freight Indices Freight Rate Filing Freight Indices Introduction About Indices Contract Template Indices CCFI SCFI SCFIS CBFI CBCFI CBOFI CBGFI CDFI FDI CTFI CSI CICFI SEAFI SRFTI BRSTI BRTVI BRCVI SRFI GCSPI MTSR C…
- port-la-stats
https://www.portoflosangeles.org/business/statistics
Start Here for Port Statistics | Statistics | Business | Port of Los Angeles | Port of Los Angeles Navigation Business Operations Contracting Opportunities How to do Business with the Port Requests for Proposals Purchasing Bids Construction Bids Insurance Cybersecurity Finance A…
- port-rotterdam-news
https://www.portofrotterdam.com/en/news-and-press-releases
Follow us on LinkedIn News Back News News overview Pressroom Photo gallery Throughput Figures Films Terms and conditions for using the Mediakit Events Go to Follow us on BlueSky Port of the Future Apply News overview Filter results Show filters Filters Hide filters Category Back…
- port-hamburg-news
https://www.hafen-hamburg.de/en/press/
Portmap Tides Terminals Jobs & Career Metropolitan Region Regional & Partner Ports Kiel Canal Metropolitan Region Vessels Vessels & Arrivals Overview of All Ships Expected Vessels Cruise Sailings Specials Ship Specials Destinations Liner Services Liner & Feeder Services Liner Se…
- triton-ir
https://www.tritoninternational.com/investors
Learn more > Buy and lease containers Our fleet of more than 7 million TEUs is carried by the world's major shipping lines. Triton International Commercial Website Contact Us Customer Tools Home Our Company Our Company Investors section SEC filings Dividends history Governance d…
- cimc-en
https://www.cimc.com/en/index.php
中文 | EN | 繁体 language 中文 EN 繁体 × Home Our Businesses Energy Field Energy, Chemical and Food Equipment Offshore Logistics Field Containers Vehicles Airports, Firefighting and Automated logistics Equipment Logistics Reusable Transport Packaging Other Finance Industry-City De…