Container spot rates from Shanghai to Europe have risen again. According to Drewry, the rate to Rotterdam increased by 6 percent to $3,522 per 40-foot container in the week ending October 15. To Genoa, it rose 7 percent to $3,945 per container.
The global World Container Index increased by 3 percent to $4,485. The index summarizes selected ocean freight rates. It is a market comparison and not a binding offer for individual shipments. (Source: Drewry)
Drewry also points to increased effective capacity. For the following week, the company expects stable rates. The recent increase alone is therefore not sufficient to declare a longer-term upward trend.
For shippers, the distinction between spot rate and announced list rate remains important. The spot rate describes short-term market business. A FAK rate is a published rate for various types of goods. Whether it is achieved in the market is another question. Those booking now should therefore request a concrete offer with validity, departure, and surcharges. In addition, pre-carriage, on-carriage, and potential terminal costs should be included in the comparison. A favorable base rate helps little if the total invoice turns out to be higher in the end.