Where Are All the Containers? February 2025
To read the full report with information, prices and hot shipping routes, download WAATC February here.
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Now let's check out the short version of the report below for an analysis of the latest trends and prices.
Asia
Overview of container leasing rates
Our data reveals that the average container leasing rate for a 40ft high cube container from Shanghai to New York was $760 in February 2025, while the rate from Shanghai to Los Angeles reached $850. Leasing rates decreased by 4% compared to the previous month.??
US-China trade war escalates with new import duties
On February 3, 2025, President Donald Trump imposed a 10% tariff on all Chinese imports, citing the influx of illegal drugs to the US as justification. Beijing retaliated by increasing tariffs by 10-15% on various US imports. Additionally, China imposed export restrictions on critical minerals vital to US industries.
The US-China tariff dispute has broad implications for both economies and the global market. Higher import costs are likely to be passed on to consumers, increasing prices of everyday goods like mobile phones, toys, and computers.
The US
Container price overview
As of February 2025, the average price of a cargo-worthy 40ft container on the US West Coast is $1,555, while prices are lower on the US East Coast, averaging $1,290.??
Tariff threat on Mexico and Canada: A temporary pause, but what’s next??
President Donald Trump paused the planned 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico for 30 days, following discussions with the leaders of both nations. The tariff threats primarily addressed concerns over border security, drug trafficking, and immigration.
Had the tariffs gone into effect, businesses across multiple industries would have faced higher costs, leading to increased prices for consumers. In particular, imports like cars, fuel, electronics, and food items—especially those sourced from Mexico and Canada—would have been heavily affected.?
Europe
Average container prices
As of February 2025, the average price for a cargo-worthy 40ft container at European ports is $1,056, with the highest prices in Bremen and the lowest in Antwerp.??
领英推荐
Maersk-Hapag partnership targets efficiency with hub strategy?
Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd’s Gemini Cooperation, launching February 1, adopts a hub-and-spoke model to improve shipping efficiency, reduce delays, lower costs, and cut emissions.
However, the success of this model depends on efficient transshipment operations. Ports like Singapore and Malaysia’s Port of Tanjung Pelepas already excel in this area, while European hubs such as Rotterdam are expanding and upgrading automation to meet increased demand
ISC and ME
Leasing price trends
As of February 2025, the average container leasing rate for 20ft container from China to ports in Europe is $363.?
Container freight rates take a dip as Red Sea threats ease?
The Drewry World Container Index (WCI) saw a 3% drop, primarily driven by falling rates on the Asia-Europe trade. As of February 3, the WCI stood at $3,273 per FEU, down significantly from the previous week ending January 30.
Over the past year, container freight rates remained higher than expected due to Houthi-led attacks. Now, with a gradual return to Red Sea and Suez Canal transits, shipping capacity is set to increase, putting further pressure on rates.
Get your copy of the full report, download WAATC February here.
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