Containers are becoming cheaper

Average prices for containers have decreased by more than half compared to August of last year as China is currently ramping up container trade volumes, according to an analysis published by the Container xChange platform:

"Now is the peak season for maritime shipments, and the industry anticipates a significant outflow of containers from China to fulfill orders from demand centers. This year, we have not observed two key trends that were the norm at this time in previous years - an increase in rental rates and container prices in China and a decrease in the cost of the Shanghai Container Availability Index (CAx)."

In their analysis, they emphasize that the CAx index is growing from week to week and significantly surpasses the levels of 2020 and 2019. According to Container xChange, this could potentially mean that there are more containers in China at reduced prices, making it easier for shippers and freight forwarders to plan shipments from China.

They also note a 17% decrease in one-way container rental rates from China to the U.S. from June to July. Additionally, the price of a standard container, according to their data, has halved compared to August 2021 and the present time.

"The decrease in average container prices and rental rates opens up good opportunities for shippers and freight forwarding companies as the supply chain prepares for the peak season, which typically lasts from July to September."