Xeneta has reported significant movements in the ocean container shipping market, particularly reflecting an 88% increase in mid-high spot rates for Transpacific trade. As of June 5, 2025, the average spot rates from the Far East to various destinations are notable: USD 5,082 per FEU (40ft container) to the US West Coast, USD 6,160 to the US East Coast, USD 2,352 to North Europe, and USD 3,982 to the Mediterranean. The mid-high spot rates reveal even more dramatic increases. Notably, the rate for the Far East to US West Coast trade has risen to USD 6,100 per FEU.
This surge follows a 90-day hiatus in the elevated US-China tariffs, encouraging shippers to act swiftly and secure shipping capacity despite rising costs. Carriers like COSCO, Evergreen, Hapag-Lloyd, and HMM have initiated rate hikes of USD 3,000 per FEU, contributing to the overall escalation. The situation has not only affected Transpacific trades; the mid-high rates from the Far East to US East Coast have grown by 67% since May 31, reaching USD 7,180 per FEU. Similarly, the trade from the Far East to North Europe saw a 32% increase during the same period, now at USD 2,704 per FEU, despite higher capacities than experienced during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Xeneta’s Chief Analyst Peter Sand emphasizes the urgency that shippers currently feel, willing to pay more to hasten the movement of goods. However, he points out that this situation is likely temporary, as capacity issues will soon balance out as shipping picks up. Furthermore, the outlook for the Far East to North Europe trade is being shaped by the effects of US-China tariffs, demonstrating how interconnected global supply chains can be. With capacity climbing and rates under pressure, it’s a turbulent yet pivotal time in the shipping industry.