Global Shipping Market Update (Late July - Early August)
Publish Time: 2025-07-24 Origin: Site
North American Trade Lanes:
US West Coast outperforms East Coast with some carriers experiencing rollovers
Failed mid-July GRIs followed by significant rate erosion
East Coast volumes decline as slower transit times miss tariff deadlines
MSC suspends PEARL service, Ocean Alliance implements blank sailings on West Coast
East Coast capacity management remains moderate but faces challenges
South American Trade:
West Coast: Stable demand with increased activity due to carrier rate reductions
Heavy cargo restrictions implemented to prevent further rate erosion
East Coast: Rate corrections observed as seasonal shipments conclude
Equipment availability normalized but heavy cargo limitations persist
Port Congestion:
Callao, Peru: 50-65% throughput reduction due to terminal congestion and road closures
Manzanillo, Mexico: Worsening congestion from strikes and weather, causing diversions
European hubs (Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, UK, France): Persistent congestion with no near-term relief
Market Indicators:
SCFI down 139 points (July 18) with continued softening expected
Base port rates stable at $3,000-$3,600/40HC
Carrier pricing strategies diverge for August increases
Healthy load factors maintained through OA's blank sailings
Mediterranean Market:
West Med base ports: $3,000-$3,300/40HC
Persistent congestion at Piraeus, Thessaloniki, Genoa, Koper
Customized pricing available for large volumes and special commodities
Critical Observations:
August rate trajectory depends on:
Shipper acceptance of proposed increases
Precision of capacity-demand matching
Effective capacity reduction from port congestion
European congestion creates ongoing schedule reliability challenges
Heavy cargo restrictions may disrupt specific commodity flows