Transpacific Routes Polarize Freight Rates and Compress B2B Margins $7,185 FEU
freight-ratesThe Drewry World Container Index (WCI) remained stable at $4,465 per 40-foot container (FEU) in September 2026, masking a significant operational fracture in global trade flows. Spot rates on the Shanghai-Los Angeles route surged 5% to $7,185 per FEU, while the Shanghai-New York route increased 3% to $9,587 per unit. This structural shortage of space on ships bound for the US forces B2B importers to absorb higher transportation costs, eroding gross margins.
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