Logistics Market Update – Transpacific Ocean Rates Trend & Market Information
For the transpacific ocean rate logistics market update, carriers continue to reduce spot rates ahead of the Chinese New Year as they build roll pools and manage soft U.S. demand. Spot offers for volume cargo are now reaching $1,700 per 40’ to the U.S. West Coast and $2,500 per 40’ to the U.S. East Coast.
Planned February 1st General Rate Increases have largely been abandoned, with carriers extending current rate levels through the end of February. These spot rates are now below many existing contract levels, creating attractive short-term opportunities for shippers.
Rate declines have slowed compared to prior weeks, signaling that capacity is beginning to tighten. Ocean carriers’ rolling of containers remains a concern, particularly out of South China. The market is experiencing significant rollovers in Weeks 6–7, which may impact select services from Ningbo and Shanghai and surrounding ports. To manage supply during Chinese New Year (2/17/26 – 2/24/26), multiple carriers are blanking sailings for Weeks 8–9, on both U.S. West Coast and U.S. East Coast routes.
February 2026 Rate Benchmarks (40’ Containers)
Far East → US & Canada West Coast | Market average: ~$1,900
Far East → US & Canada East Coast | Market average: ~$2,600
Far East → US Gulf Coast | Market average: ~$2,600
Far East → Chicago & Major IPIs | Market range: $4,100–$4,300
(Note: rates are subject to space and equipment availability.)
India–USA Ocean Market Update
Space & Equipment
Space availability remains stable on both USWC and USEC routings. Booking confirmations are being issued within standard lead times. Container supply is healthy at Nhava Sheva, Mundra, and Chennai, with inland rail and truck depots operating normally.
Kolkata continues to experience seasonal congestion due to reduced river draft levels. Minor delays in container empty repositioning may occur, though no major shortages are reported.
Rates
Market rates remain largely unchanged through Weeks 7–12. Capacity remains sufficient, and demand is moderate. Spot rate levels continue to trend below fixed contract rates.
Trade Policy Update: India Tariffs Reduced
The U.S. administration has announced plans to reduce reciprocal tariffs on India from 50% to 18%, including the removal of an additional 25% emergency tariff. Formal implementation timing has not yet been confirmed, but is expected to support increased India–U.S. trade volumes once in effect.
CMA CGM: Global Terminal Expansion
CMA CGM has formed a new U.S.-based joint venture, United Ports LLC, retaining a 75% ownership stake. Infrastructure investor Stonepeak holds the remaining 25% following a $2.4 billion investment.
The JV will include 10 terminals across North America, Europe, Asia, and South America, with closing targeted for the second half of 2026. The partnership aims to strengthen access to key gateways and enhance terminal service quality.
China–USA Air freight Market
Air freight rates between China and the U.S. continue to soften. Market data shows an overall decline of 3.3%, with Shanghai (PVG) down 1.8%.
Additional pressure comes from tighter tariff enforcement and the full rollout of CBP’s electronic ACH tax refund process as of February 6th. Weather-related congestion following Winter Storm “Faye” is causing 3–5 day domestic transit delays across parts of North America.
Asia–USA Air Market Highlights
Shenzhen volumes have seen a slight pickup, while Hong Kong remains soft with no pre-Chinese New Year peak expected.
E-commerce demand in Hong Kong remains weak; Southeast Asia growth continues to be driven by high-tech, fashion, and electronics shipments.
Fuel surcharges in Southeast Asia and Hong Kong are down 10–15% from last month.
Several airlines have cancelled cargo freighter services to manage capacity and support rates.
Weather Disruptions: Europe & North Africa
Severe winter storms continue to disrupt operations in the Western Mediterranean and Northern Europe. Ports in Morocco and southern Spain, including Casablanca, have experienced repeated closures.
Some carriers have implemented a $100 per container emergency operational recovery surcharge effective February 5 for shipments to/from Casablanca. Further vessel delays are expected to impact Mediterranean and North Europe supply chains in the near term.
For rate guidance, space protection, or shipment planning support, please contact LogiWorld Corporation to provide you with quality service and information!
