SCFI Rises for 3rd Week: Container Freight Rates Surge Across All Major Routes

Shanghai Containerized Freight Index (SCFI) Climbs 7.21% WoW to 1,586.12 Points

Key Highlights:

• Trans-Pacific & Europe-Med Rates Spike:

• US West Coast: $3,275/FEU (+5.95% WoW, +$184)

• US East Coast: $4,284/FEU (+5.28% WoW, +$215)

• Europe: $1,317/TEU (+14.12% WoW, +$163)

• Mediterranean: $2,328/TEU (+11.81% WoW, +$246)

• Intra-Asia Mixed:

• Japan (Kansai/Kanto): Flat at $315–$320/TEU

• Southeast Asia: $440/TEU (+$6)

• Korea: $140/TEU (-$4)

Driving Factors:

1. US Tariff Rush:

• Chinese exporters accelerating shipments before potential 90-day tariff pause expires (June–July peak).

• Major retailers (e.g., Walmart) restocking as inventories hit critical lows.

2. Capacity Crunch:

• US routes: Up to $3,000/FEU (subject to demand).

• Europe routes: $700–800/TEU (weaker push due to capacity shifts to US lanes).

• Carriers deploying 75,000 TEU of extra loaders on US routes in next 4 weeks.

• June rate hikes planned:

Industry Outlook:

• Short-Term Boom: US demand surge may fade post-tariff window, but carriers aim to capitalize on high rates now.

• Caution Ahead: Europe’s softer hike reflects weaker demand vs. trans-Pacific volatility.

Pro Tip: Secure 40’ containers (FEU) for US shipments—premium space is shrinking fast.