Entering May 2026, the global container shipping market has entered a new round of explosive growth. The Shanghai Containerized Freight Index (SCFI) has risen for four consecutive weeks, reaching 2218.15 points as of May 22, an increase of more than 70% compared to the average value in February this year. Global leading shipping companies including Maersk, MSC and CMA CGM have rolled out a flurry of rate hike notices covering all core routes such as Asia-Europe, Trans-Pacific, Middle East and Southeast Asia, with some routes seeing a 28% increase in a single week.
"Extremely hard to come by container space" has become the new normal in the current market. All May space on popular routes to Europe, Mediterranean, North America and Red Sea is fully booked, and space for the first half of June is also running out quickly. Shipping companies are maintaining high freight rate systems through blank sailings, capacity reductions and capacity control to prop up rates, leading to frequent container rolling incidents, which are particularly severe on US routes from East China. Meanwhile, slower container equipment turnaround and equipment shortages have further exacerbated supply chain pressures.
Under this severe situation, LiHang Logistics sincerely reminds all foreign trade enterprises: Please secure container space 15-25 days in advance, and 30 days in advance is recommended during super peak periods. Advance booking not only ensures smooth shipment of your goods, but also locks in current freight rates, avoiding cost increases caused by subsequent shipping companies' General Rate Increases (GRI) and peak season surcharge adjustments.
LiHang Logistics has been deeply engaged in the international logistics industry for many years, maintaining long-term and stable strategic cooperative relationships with major shipping companies and possessing abundant contract container space resources. Our professional team will provide you with one-stop logistics solutions, real-time cargo tracking, minimize the risk of container rolling, and ensure the smooth operation of your supply chain. Please contact us as early as possible for any of your shipping plans. LiHang Logistics looks forward to working hand in hand with you to navigate these challenging times and build a better future together!