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2026-09-18 05:12:09
Driven by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, container shipping prices are poised to reach new post-pandemic highs. The conflict in Iran has pushed up fuel costs, leading to a continued rise in global container shipping rates. Industry analysts point out that rates on some core routes may once again approach or even surpass the historical highs reached during the pandemic. According to statistics released by freight pricing platform Xeneta, the spot freight rate for a 40-foot container on popular long-haul shipping routes has risen to $10,948, more than four times the price since the outbreak of the conflict in Iran on February 28, approaching the historical high of $11,900 set in January 2022. Currently, the price of low-sulfur marine fuel oil has risen to $901.5 per ton, still lower than the peak of $1,053 on March 20, but significantly higher than the $543.5 on February 27. Coupled with the demand from companies to replenish inventory ahead of the traditional peak shipping season, subsequent shipping demand may further drive up freight rates. Xeneta analysts point out that with fuel surcharges continuing to rise, freight rates on related container routes could very well exceed the peak levels seen during the pandemic.
