By A. Dimitriou
Introduction
Freight rates are a critical indicator for global shipping and logistics. As of December 2025, rates across Tankers, LNG carriers, Container Vessels, and Bulk Carriers reflect a market shaped by geopolitical tensions, seasonal demand, and fleet dynamics. This article provides the most up-to-date rates, visual summaries, and key market drivers.
Similar articles from Maritimehub..
Latest Freight Rates by Vessel Type
Tankers
| Vessel Type | Spot Rate (USD/day) | Time Charter (USD/day) |
| VLCC | $131,252 | $60,000 |
| Suezmax | $94,299 | $45,000 |
| Aframax | $31,250 | $31,250 |
| LR2 | $36,000 | $36,000 |
| MR | $37,435 | $37,435 |
VLCC rates have surged due to Middle East tensions and rerouting, with Suezmax and Aframax also elevated. Product tankers (LR2, MR) remain strong on Atlantic and Asian routes.
LNG Carriers
| Carrier Type | Spot Rate (USD/day) | Time Charter (USD/day) |
| Two-Stroke Engine | $160,000 | $30,000 |
| TFDE | $100,000 | $30,000 |
Spot rates for modern LNG carriers are at two-year highs, driven by strong U.S. exports and European winter demand. Time charters remain stable.
Container Vessels
| Route | 40ft Container Rate (USD) |
| Shanghai–Rotterdam | $2,028 |
| Shanghai–Genoa | $2,193 |
| Shanghai–Los Angeles | $2,328 |
| Shanghai–New York | $3,254 |
| Global Average | $1,859 |
Rates have declined from pandemic highs but remain volatile, with some routes showing recent increases.
Bulk Carriers
| Vessel Type | Time Charter (USD/day) |
| Capesize | $21,400 |
| Panamax | $13,250 |
| Supramax | $13,500 |
Bulk carrier rates are supported by strong demand for iron ore and grains, with eco-vessels commanding premiums.
Historical Trend Table (2023–2025)
| Year | VLCC (USD/day) | LNG (USD/day) | Container (40ft USD) | Capesize (USD/day) |
| 2023 | $45,000 | $30,000 | $3,200 | $18,000 |
| 2024 | $90,000 | $30,000 | $2,812 | $25,000 |
| 2025 | $131,252 | $160,000 | $1,859 | $21,400 |
Rates peaked for tankers and LNG in 2025, while container rates declined from pandemic highs.
Key Market Drivers
- Geopolitical Tensions: Red Sea and Russia-Ukraine disruptions have increased rates for tankers and LNG carriers.
- Seasonal Demand: Winter demand in Europe and Asia is pushing LNG rates higher.
- Fleet Dynamics: Newbuild deliveries and scrapping rates are influencing capacity, especially in LNG and container segments.
- Regulatory Changes: IMO 2023 regulations and cleaner fuels have raised operating costs.
Conclusion
The latest freight rates for Tankers, LNG carriers, Container Vessels, and Bulk Carriers reflect a market in flux. Shippers and carriers must monitor geopolitical events, seasonal trends, and regulatory changes to navigate rate volatility and optimize logistics strategies.
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.
