Two major container routes from China are currently showing a completely different picture. The Freightos Baltic Daily Index reported China to North American West Coast at USD 8,446 per FEU on September 23. One FEU corresponds to a 40-foot container. This was almost double the twelve-month average of USD 4,381.
On the China–Mediterranean route, however, the index fell to USD 3,591 per FEU. In July, it had still been at USD 7,540. The rate has thus more than halved.
The difference cannot be explained by demand alone. On the transpacific route, tight vessel capacity, Golden Week planning, and disruptions at Asian ports coincide. In the Mediterranean, by contrast, additional capacity is being progressively rerouted via the Suez Canal. More available space puts pressure on prices.
For shippers, it is important to note that index values are not individual quotes. Surcharges, departure port, destination terminal, equipment, and free days can significantly change the final price. Even a low Mediterranean rate can be put into perspective again by local costs.