Asia - Europe freight rates surge amid peak season; Panama Canal challenges lead to diversions
On December 8, the Asia-North Europe and Asia-Mediterranean routes saw a 9% and 10% increase
Asia-Europe freight rates are on the rise in December due to the Christmas shipping season, as revealed in Linerlytica's latest report. On December 8, the Asia-North Europe and Asia-Mediterranean routes saw a 9% and 10% increase, reaching $925/TEU and $1,387/TEU, respectively.
The return voyage on the Asia-Europe route and Panama Canal diversions are easing the impact of a record 2.2 million TEU new ship deliveries this year.
In contrast, Asia-US East Coast rates dipped to $2,441/FEU, while Asia-US West Coast rates rose to $1,669/FEU.
Challenges at the Panama Canal are leading some routes to divert, impacting shipping companies like the Union Shipping Company. Linerlytica notes, "Due to limited access, they've shifted services to avoid delays, even though the Panama Canal's capacity on the east coast remains sufficient."