Introduction
Global freight markets are experiencing significant volatility in late October 2025. Container shipping rates have hit multi-year lows, dry bulk indices show mixed signals, and tanker rates are surging due to geopolitical tensions. This article provides a visual dashboard, regional breakdown, and actionable insights for shippers and logistics professionals.
Container Freight Rates: Oversupply Drives Declines
Spot rates for 40-foot containers have dropped to \$1,669 globally, marking a 52% year-on-year decline. The oversupply of vessels and weak demand continue to cause pressure on rates.
Key Routes (Drewry World Container Index)
| Route | Rate (USD/40ft) | YoY Change |
|---|---|---|
| Shanghai – Los Angeles | \$2,196 | ↓ 58% |
| Shanghai – New York | \$3,200 | ↓ 46% |
| Shanghai – Rotterdam | \$1,613 | ↓ 58% |
| Shanghai – Genoa | \$1,804 | ↓ 53% |
| Rotterdam – Shanghai | \$459 | ↓ 22% |
| New York – Rotterdam | \$847 | ↑ 17% |
Visual Dashboard: Container Freight Rates
Dry Bulk Market: Baltic Dry Index Trends
The Baltic Dry Index (BDI) stands at 2,057 points, down 1.7% from last week. Capesize vessels show strength, while Supramax softens.
| Segment | Index Points | Daily Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Capesize | 3,059 | \$25,367/day |
| Panamax | 1,924 | \$17,319/day |
| Supramax | 1,378 | \$13,780/day |
Visual Dashboard: Baltic Dry Index
🛢️ Tanker Market: VLCC Rates Surge
VLCC rates on the Middle East–China route have spiked to \$100,000/day, the highest in nearly three years. Port fees and geopolitical tensions drive this surge.
Visual Dashboard: VLCC Tanker Rate
🌐 Regional Breakdown
Asia–US Routes
- Rates surged temporarily due to trade tensions, but remain historically low.
- China–US West Coast: \$2,000–\$2,100/FEU
- China–US East Coast: \$3,000–\$3,100/FEU
Asia–Europe Routes
- Significant YoY declines (over 50%) driven by oversupply and weak demand.
- Shanghai–Rotterdam and Shanghai–Genoa routes hit multi-year lows.
Dry Bulk
- Capesize earnings strong on iron ore demand.
- Panamax is stable; Supramax is softening due to reduced coal shipments.
Tankers
- VLCC rates soaring on Middle East–China routes.
- Aframax and Suezmax segments also trending upward.
Key Takeaways
- Container rates remain under pressure globally.
- Dry bulk shows mixed signals; Capesize is strong, while smaller segments are weaker.
- Tanker rates are surging, creating owner opportunities but cost challenges for charterers.
photo by Tom Fisk
The Maritime-Hub Editorial Team
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Maritime-Hub. Readers are advised to research this information before making decisions based on it.
