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Jan 29 2018

Container Market: What Do We Expect For February

Carriers are optimistic that the head-haul routes may see box rate increases on February 1. There are significant variances in these and the container industry believes it could fall on the conservative side as the focus remains on maximizing cargo allocations before Chinese New Year occurs rather than sustainable price increases that could jeopardize a full cargo sailing.

 

The East Coast North America inbound route from North Asia is tighter than the West Coast for cargo allocations but both routes could see a box rate hike of between $200 and $500. Industry players believe a realistic box rate to the East Coast could be $3,000/FEU up 15% if achieved on February 1. The West Coast box rate is more conservative at $1,500/FEU but still equates to a 15% increase. Do not be surprised if the rates close either side of this on February 1, similar to what occurred January 1. Read more

 

 

Source: HELLENICSHIPPINGNEWS