Drewry’s World Container Index Holds Steady as Bunker Surcharges Loom

Drewry’s World Container Index (WCI) remained stable this week, holding at $2,287 per 40-foot container. Rates on both the Asia-Europe and Transpacific trades have shown consistency, according to Drewry’s assessment on April 2, 2026.

On the Asia-Europe route, the Shanghai to Genoa lane saw a slight increase of 2%, reaching $3,529. Conversely, rates from Shanghai to Rotterdam held firm at $2,543. With only four blank sailings planned for the upcoming week, capacity on this route is expected to remain stable. Drewry anticipates a rise in rates in the coming weeks, driven by increasing bunker fuel costs that are prompting carriers to implement emergency surcharges.

The Transpacific trade also experienced minor fluctuations. The Shanghai to New York route saw a 1% increase to $3,434, while Shanghai to Los Angeles experienced a 1% decrease to $2,663. Maersk has sought US regulatory approval to bypass the standard 30-day notice period and impose an immediate emergency bunker surcharge. This action is attributed to elevated and volatile fuel costs. The proposed surcharge amounts to $200 per TEU for headhaul and $100 per TEU for backhaul dry shipments. Drewry forecasts continued upward pressure on spot rates.

Compounding these factors, disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz are leading to tighter bunker fuel availability in key Asian hubs, including Singapore and China. In response, carriers are employing strategies such as slow steaming, exploring alternative refueling options, and introducing emergency surcharges. Drewry anticipates that these combined pressures will sustain elevated freight rates in the short term.

WCI holds steady at $2,287 as carriers push for bunker surcharges