SINO Shipping Global Market Monthly Update — March 2026
March 2026 at a glance: Post-CNY recovery underway — Chinese factories restarted late February. ME crisis: Strait of Hormuz closure driving global surcharges and Cape of Good Hope rerouting. Expect +7–14 days transit on Asia–Europe lanes. Book with rate validity in mind — surcharges may apply.
Attention — Prices highly volatile
Strait of Hormuz closed, Middle East geopolitical tensions: rates can shift significantly with each development. Don't rely on old quotes — verify prices at the time of booking.
ME Crisis
Hormuz closure · Cape rerouting
Surcharges on all lanes — +7–14d transit
Post-CNY Recovery
Factories back online
Capacity returning — demand building
Rate Validity
Ask 2–3 weeks validity
Volatile month — lock quotes early
🔍 Why rates moved
ME Crisis — Hormuz Closure
Strait of Hormuz closure driving surcharges and Cape rerouting globally
Post-CNY Recovery
Factories restarted late Feb — capacity returning, demand building
Cape Rerouting
+7–14 days transit on Asia–Europe; equipment tightening
Contingency Surcharges
CSU and WRS applied — ask for rate validity at booking
⚡ What to do now
⚠️
Confirm Surcharges
ME crisis surcharges on all lanes — get full quote at booking
💰
Lock in Savings
Mexico & Brazil value continues
🏭
Factory Contact
Confirm restart dates with suppliers
Attention — High price volatility
Due to the geopolitical situation (Strait of Hormuz closure, Middle East tensions), rates can fluctuate significantly from day to day. The prices below are indicators — always request a firm quote with short validity (2–3 weeks) before confirming.
Source: SINO Shipping quotes, carrier filings, EAA Network. Rates are typical ex-China FCL/air spot unless noted.
Americas — March 2026
Post-CNY recovery — factories restarted late Feb. ME crisis: Strait of Hormuz closure driving surcharges and Cape rerouting. US 20GP $1,944–2,376, Mexico 40GP $3,240–3,960. Secure space — surcharges may apply.
Attention — High volatility on Americas lanes
Strait of Hormuz closure driving CSU and contingency surcharges. Prices can swing sharply with geopolitical developments — verify rates at booking and ask for short validity (2–3 weeks).
Mexico Rates Up — ME Crisis Impact
Mexico 40GP at $3,240–3,960 — ME surcharges and Cape detours pushing rates up. Book early for Q2.
🇺🇸
USA
≈ 0%
$2,450 (40GP)
🇨🇦
Canada
≈ 0%
$5,000 (40GP)
🇲🇽
Mexico
↑ +150%
$3,600 (40GP)
🇧🇷
Brazil
↑ +75%
$2,800 (40GP)
🇨🇱
Chile
↑ +177%
$3,600 (40GP)
Why it moved
- ⚠️ ME crisis impact — Hormuz closure pushing surcharges; Mexico/Brazil/Chile rates up on Cape rerouting.
- 🇺🇸 US stability — 20GP $1,944–2,376, 40GP $2,205–2,695; West Coast best value.
- 🇲🇽 Mexico up — 40GP $3,240–3,960; ME surcharges and nearshoring demand driving rates.
- 🇧🇷 Brazil — 40GP $2,520–3,080; competitive but up from February.
- ✈️ Air — US air ~$4.85/kg; confirm surcharges at booking.
Rates at a glance
⚠️ Attention: Prices below are indicative. Due to the Hormuz crisis, rates can fluctuate significantly — always request an up-to-date quote.
| Country | Sea 20GP | Sea 40GP | LCL /CBM | Air /kg | Express /kg | Transit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🌎 North America | ||||||
| 🇺🇸 United States | $1,944–2,376 | $2,205–2,695 | $110 | $4.9 | $11.2 | 9–13d |
| 🇨🇦 Canada | $3,663–4,477 | $4,509–5,511 | $160 | $4.4 | $9.1 | 9–11d |
| 🇲🇽 Mexico | $2,925–3,575 | $3,240–3,960 | $90 | $7.5 | $15.2 | 10–12d |
| Central America | ||||||
| 🇧🇿 Belize | $1,811–2,237 | $2,023–2,449 | $100 | $9 | $15.2 | 10–12d |
| 🇨🇷 Costa Rica | $1,811–2,237 | $2,023–2,449 | $100 | $9 | $15.2 | 8–15d |
| 🇸🇻 El Salvador | $1,811–2,237 | $2,023–2,449 | $100 | $9 | $15.2 | 10–14d |
| 🇬🇹 Guatemala | $1,811–2,237 | $2,023–2,449 | $100 | $9 | $15.2 | 8–13d |
| 🇭🇳 Honduras | $1,811–2,237 | $2,023–2,449 | $100 | $9 | $15.2 | 10–15d |
| 🇳🇮 Nicaragua | $1,811–2,237 | $2,023–2,449 | $100 | $9 | $15.2 | 9–13d |
| 🇵🇦 Panama | $1,811–2,237 | $2,023–2,449 | $100 | $9 | $15.2 | 10–14d |
| 🏝️ Caribbean | ||||||
| 🇦🇬 Antigua & Barbuda | $5,325–6,497 | $6,175–7,559 | $150 | $10 | $16 | 9–13d |
| 🇧🇸 Bahamas | $5,325–6,497 | $6,175–7,559 | $150 | $10 | $16 | 10–12d |
| 🇧🇧 Barbados | $5,325–6,497 | $6,175–7,559 | $150 | $10 | $16 | 10–14d |
| 🇨🇺 Cuba | $8,100–9,900 | $8,145–9,955 | $316 | $10 | $16 | 8–11d |
| 🇩🇲 Dominica | $5,325–6,497 | $6,175–7,559 | $150 | $10 | $16 | 10–12d |
| 🇩🇴 Dominican Rep. | $5,325–6,497 | $6,175–7,559 | $150 | $10 | $16 | 9–12d |
| 🇬🇩 Grenada | $5,325–6,497 | $6,175–7,559 | $150 | $10 | $16 | 10–12d |
| 🇭🇹 Haiti | $5,325–6,497 | $6,175–7,559 | $150 | $10 | $16 | 10–15d |
| 🇯🇲 Jamaica | $5,325–6,497 | $6,175–7,559 | $150 | $10 | $16 | 9–14d |
| 🇰🇳 St Kitts & Nevis | $5,325–6,497 | $6,175–7,559 | $150 | $10 | $16 | 9–13d |
| 🇱🇨 St Lucia | $5,325–6,497 | $6,175–7,559 | $150 | $10 | $16 | 9–13d |
| 🇻🇨 St Vincent | $5,325–6,497 | $6,175–7,559 | $150 | $10 | $16 | 9–10d |
| 🇹🇹 Trinidad & Tobago | $5,325–6,497 | $6,175–7,559 | $150 | $10 | $16 | 9–13d |
| 🌎 South America | ||||||
| 🇦🇷 Argentina | $2,295–2,805 | $2,520–3,080 | $105 | $9.5 | $14.7 | 10–14d |
| 🇧🇴 Bolivia | $4,168–5,149 | $4,985–6,092 | $85 | $8.8 | $15.0 | 10–12d |
| 🇧🇷 Brazil | $2,295–2,805 | $2,520–3,080 | $60 | $9.1 | $14.4 | 8–13d |
| 🇨🇱 Chile | $2,925–3,575 | $3,240–3,960 | $180 | $9.1 | $10.9 | 9–12d |
| 🇨🇴 Colombia | $2,925–3,575 | $3,240–3,960 | $150 | $9.1 | $14.4 | 10–13d |
| 🇪🇨 Ecuador | $2,925–3,575 | $3,240–3,960 | $80 | $9.1 | $14.4 | 8–14d |
| 🇬🇾 Guyana | $2,989–3,693 | $3,451–4,217 | $85 | $8.8 | $15.0 | 11–15d |
| 🇵🇾 Paraguay | $3,096–3,825 | $3,150–3,850 | $100 | $8.9 | $15.0 | 10–12d |
| 🇵🇪 Peru | $4,168–5,149 | $4,985–6,092 | $85 | $8.8 | $15.0 | 10–12d |
| 🇸🇷 Suriname | $2,989–3,693 | $3,451–4,217 | $85 | $8.8 | $15.0 | 10–12d |
| 🇺🇾 Uruguay | $2,787–3,406 | $2,914–3,561 | $138 | $10.9 | $17.6 | 9–11d |
| 🇻🇪 Venezuela | $2,989–3,693 | $3,451–4,217 | $85 | $8.8 | $15.0 | 10–12d |
What this means for shippers
- 🇺🇸 USA → 20GP $1,944–2,376, 40GP $2,205–2,695. West Coast value — lock in for April delivery. ME surcharges may apply.
- 🇲🇽 Mexico → 40GP $3,240–3,960. Rates up from February — ME crisis and Cape detours impacting. Book early for Q2.
- 🇧🇷 Brazil → 40GP from $2,520. Competitive South America rates — secure for post-CNY delivery.
- 🇨🇦 Canada → 40GP $4,509–5,511. Vancouver/Toronto — confirm surcharges at booking.
- ⚠️ ME crisis → Hormuz closure. Expect contingency surcharges on all lanes — ask for rate validity.
Europe — March 2026
Post-CNY recovery — ME crisis: Hormuz closure, Cape rerouting. Europe 40GP ~$1,935–2,365 (Germany/UK/NL). Rail unaffected — 12–14 days. Surcharges in effect — ask for rate validity.
Attention — Europe rates volatile
Hormuz closure — Europe routes via Cape of Good Hope. Expect +7–14 days transit and surcharges that can change rapidly. Prices may fluctuate significantly — lock quotes early and confirm validity.
🇩🇪
Germany
↓ −10%
$2,150 (40GP)
🇬🇧
UK
↓ −10%
$2,150 (40GP)
🇳🇱
Netherlands
↓ −10%
$2,150 (40GP)
🇫🇷
France
↓ −10%
$2,150 (40GP)
🇧🇪
Belgium
↓ −10%
$2,150 (40GP)
Why it moved
- ⚠️ ME crisis — Hormuz closure driving Cape rerouting; +7–14 days transit, surcharges in effect.
- 📦 Post-CNY recovery — Factories restarted late Feb; capacity returning, demand building.
- 🚂 Rail competitive — China-Europe rail unaffected — 12–14 days; viable alternative to Cape routing.
- ✈️ Air stable — $6.5–7.3/kg across major EU airports — good for urgent shipments.
Rates at a glance
⚠️ Attention: Prices below are indicative. Hormuz crisis and Cape rerouting — rates can fluctuate significantly; confirm at booking.
| Country | Sea 20GP | Sea 40GP | LCL /CBM | Air /kg | Express /kg | Rail LCL | Rail 20GP | Rail 40GP | Transit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Western Europe (Main Ports) | |||||||||
| 🇧🇪 Belgium | $1,215–1,485 | $1,935–2,365 | $35 | $3.9 | $10.8 | $220 | $4,950–6,050 | $7,335–8,965 | 25–26d |
| 🇫🇷 France | $1,215–1,485 | $1,935–2,365 | $30 | $3.7 | $11.1 | $210 | $4,158–5,082 | $6,048–7,392 | 25–28d |
| 🇩🇪 Germany | $1,215–1,485 | $1,935–2,365 | $45 | $6.5 | $7.5 | $210 | $4,770–5,830 | $7,470–9,130 | 25–33d |
| 🇮🇪 Ireland | $1,463–1,788 | $2,363–2,888 | $65 | $4 | $11.5 | — | — | — | 25–27d |
| 🇱🇺 Luxembourg | $1,680–2,054 | $2,510–3,068 | $50 | $3.7 | $10.1 | — | — | — | 25–34d |
| 🇳🇱 Netherlands | $1,215–1,485 | $1,935–2,365 | $35 | $3.8 | $11.0 | $204 | $4,039–4,936 | $5,875–7,180 | 25–32d |
| 🇬🇧 United Kingdom | $1,215–1,485 | $1,935–2,365 | $55 | $4.1 | $11.7 | $229 | $4,554–5,566 | $6,623–8,095 | 25–28d |
| 🇦🇩 Andorra | $1,680–2,054 | $2,510–3,068 | $50 | $3.7 | $10.1 | — | — | — | 25–30d |
| 🇱🇮 Liechtenstein | $1,680–2,054 | $2,510–3,068 | $50 | $3.7 | $10.1 | — | — | — | 25–34d |
| 🇲🇨 Monaco | $1,680–2,054 | $2,510–3,068 | $50 | $3.7 | $10.1 | — | — | — | 25–28d |
| Northern Europe (Scandinavia & Baltics) | |||||||||
| 🇩🇰 Denmark | $1,530–1,870 | $2,295–2,805 | $45 | $3.8 | $10.9 | $210 | $4,158–5,082 | $6,048–7,392 | 25–32d |
| 🇫🇮 Finland | $1,620–1,980 | $2,520–3,080 | $60 | $3.8 | $10.9 | $220 | $4,356–5,324 | $6,336–7,744 | 25–33d |
| 🇮🇸 Iceland | $1,620–1,980 | $2,520–3,080 | $60 | $3.8 | $10.9 | — | — | — | 25–33d |
| 🇳🇴 Norway | $2,205–2,695 | $3,195–3,905 | $45 | $3.9 | $11.0 | $229 | $4,554–5,566 | $6,623–8,095 | 25–28d |
| 🇸🇪 Sweden | $1,530–1,870 | $2,340–2,860 | $80 | $4.3 | $10.9 | $220 | $4,356–5,324 | $6,336–7,744 | 25–27d |
| 🇪🇪 Estonia | $1,620–1,980 | $2,520–3,080 | $60 | $3.8 | $10.9 | — | — | — | 25–33d |
| 🇱🇻 Latvia | $1,620–1,980 | $2,520–3,080 | $60 | $3.8 | $10.9 | — | — | — | 25–33d |
| 🇱🇹 Lithuania | $1,620–1,980 | $2,520–3,080 | $60 | $3.8 | $10.9 | — | — | — | 25–32d |
| Southern Europe (Mediterranean) | |||||||||
| 🇨🇾 Cyprus | $1,784–2,196 | $2,918–3,576 | $55 | $3.8 | $11.2 | — | — | — | 25–28d |
| 🇬🇷 Greece | $1,784–2,196 | $2,918–3,576 | $55 | $3.8 | $11.2 | — | — | — | 25–31d |
| 🇮🇹 Italy | $1,890–2,310 | $2,880–3,520 | $40 | $3.8 | $10.7 | $235 | $4,356–5,324 | $7,110–8,690 | 25–34d |
| 🇲🇹 Malta | $1,783–2,179 | $2,795–3,416 | $103 | $3.8 | $11.2 | — | — | — | 25–27d |
| 🇵🇹 Portugal | $1,710–2,090 | $2,835–3,465 | $30 | $3.9 | $11.0 | — | — | — | 25–26d |
| 🇪🇸 Spain | $1,935–2,365 | $2,835–3,465 | $45 | $4.1 | $11.6 | $215 | $4,356–5,324 | $7,470–9,130 | 25–31d |
| 🇹🇷 Turkey | $1,314–1,606 | $2,295–2,805 | $12 | $4.6 | $10.4 | — | — | $7,110–8,690 | 9–10d |
| 🇸🇲 San Marino | $1,606–1,962 | $2,626–3,209 | $50 | $3.7 | $10.9 | — | — | — | 25–29d |
| 🇻🇦 Vatican City | $1,606–1,962 | $2,626–3,209 | $50 | $3.7 | $10.9 | — | — | — | 25–32d |
| Central Europe | |||||||||
| 🇦🇹 Austria | $1,620–1,980 | $2,835–3,465 | $85 | $3.8 | $10.7 | $210 | $4,158–5,082 | $6,048–7,392 | 25–32d |
| 🇨🇿 Czech Republic | $1,440–1,760 | $2,430–2,970 | $45 | $4.2 | $12 | $204 | $4,039–4,936 | $5,875–7,180 | 25–32d |
| 🇭🇺 Hungary | $1,440–1,760 | $2,430–2,970 | $45 | $4.2 | $12 | $204 | $4,039–4,936 | $5,875–7,180 | 25–27d |
| 🇵🇱 Poland | $1,350–1,650 | $2,250–2,750 | $35 | $4.4 | $12 | $200 | $3,960–4,840 | $5,895–7,205 | 25–31d |
| 🇸🇰 Slovakia | $1,440–1,760 | $2,430–2,970 | $45 | $4.2 | $12 | $204 | $4,039–4,936 | $5,875–7,180 | 25–27d |
| 🇨🇭 Switzerland | $1,440–1,760 | $2,430–2,970 | $125 | $4 | $11.0 | $216 | $4,276–5,227 | $6,220–7,603 | 25–32d |
| Eastern Europe | |||||||||
| 🇧🇾 Belarus | $1,440–1,760 | $2,430–2,970 | $45 | $4.6 | $12 | $160 | $3,168–3,872 | $4,608–5,632 | 25–30d |
| 🇧🇬 Bulgaria | $1,440–1,760 | $2,430–2,970 | $45 | $4.6 | $12 | $229 | $4,554–5,566 | $6,623–8,095 | 25–26d |
| 🇲🇩 Moldova | $1,440–1,760 | $2,430–2,970 | $45 | $4.6 | $12 | — | — | — | 25–35d |
| 🇷🇴 Romania | $1,440–1,760 | $2,430–2,970 | $45 | $4.6 | $12 | $220 | $4,356–5,324 | $6,336–7,744 | 25–30d |
| 🇷🇺 Russia | $4,725–5,775 | $8,370–10,230 | $4.9 | — | $10.9 | $160 | $3,168–3,872 | $4,608–5,632 | 10–12d |
| 🇺🇦 Ukraine | $1,440–1,760 | $2,430–2,970 | $45 | $4.6 | $12 | $220 | $4,356–5,324 | $6,336–7,744 | 25–31d |
| Balkans | |||||||||
| 🇦🇱 Albania | $1,950–2,400 | $3,100–3,800 | $55 | $4.7 | $11.2 | — | — | — | 25–29d |
| 🇧🇦 Bosnia | $1,950–2,400 | $3,100–3,800 | $55 | $4.7 | $11.2 | — | — | — | 25–33d |
| 🇭🇷 Croatia | $1,950–2,400 | $3,100–3,800 | $55 | $4.7 | $11.2 | — | — | — | 25–28d |
| 🇲🇪 Montenegro | $1,950–2,400 | $3,100–3,800 | $55 | $4.7 | $11.2 | — | — | — | 25–29d |
| 🇲🇰 North Macedonia | $1,950–2,400 | $3,100–3,800 | $55 | $4.7 | $11.2 | — | — | — | 25–32d |
| 🇷🇸 Serbia | $1,950–2,400 | $3,100–3,800 | $55 | $4.7 | $11.2 | $229 | $4,554–5,566 | $6,623–8,095 | 25–27d |
| 🇸🇮 Slovenia | $1,950–2,400 | $3,100–3,800 | $55 | $3.9 | $11.2 | — | — | — | 25–32d |
What this means for shippers
- 🚢 Main ports (NL/DE/BE/UK) → −23% vs January. Rates normalizing — excellent window to lock in contracts.
- 🚂 Rail option → Consider China-Europe rail. 12–14 days transit competitive for time-sensitive cargo for March delivery.
- 🎆 March planning → Book for March arrivals. Plan March arrivals now. Factories restart late Feb.
- ✈️ Air freight → Good capacity at $6.75–7.3/kg. Post-holiday lull — excellent for urgent shipments.
- 📅 Post-CNY outlook → Expect rate softening in late March as factories reopen and capacity normalizes.
Africa — March 2026
Attention — ME crisis impacting Africa lanes; rates can fluctuate. South Africa at competitive rates, Nigeria 20GP=40GP structure. Cape rerouting and surcharges in effect — verify prices at booking.
Attention — Cape rerouting and ME surcharges; Africa rates subject to swings. Confirm quotes at booking — geopolitical developments can shift prices quickly.
🇿🇦
South Africa
↓ −30%
$2,250 (40GP)
🇳🇬
Nigeria
↓ −11%
$3,100 (20GP=40GP)
🇪🇬
Egypt
≈ 0%
$4,400 (40GP)
🇲🇦
Morocco
≈ 0%
$6,100 (40GP)
🇰🇪
Kenya
↓ −26%
$1,400 (40GP)
Why it moved
- 🎆 CNY pre-booking — African importers securing capacity before factory shutdown; steady demand.
- 🌊 Cape routing standard — Red Sea detours fully normalized; transit times consistent at +7–10 days.
- 🇳🇬 Nigeria pricing — Unique 20GP=40GP structure continues — excellent value for full containers.
- ✈️ Air hubs stable — Johannesburg and Nairobi with good capacity at $7/kg and $5.5/kg respectively.
Rates at a glance
⚠️ Attention: Prices below are indicative. Cape rerouting and ME surcharges — rates can fluctuate significantly; confirm at booking.
| Country | Sea 20GP | Sea 40GP | LCL /CBM | Air /kg | Express /kg | Transit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🏜️ North Africa | ||||||
| 🇩🇿 Algeria | $4,095–5,005 | $5,040–6,160 | $185 | $5.2 | $10.9 | 35–44d |
| 🇪🇬 Egypt | $3,015–3,685 | $3,960–4,840 | $105 | $4.2 | $10.1 | 34–45d |
| 🇱🇾 Libya | $3,496–4,295 | $5,405–6,584 | $142 | $4.7 | $10.1 | 34–43d |
| 🇲🇦 Morocco | $3,496–4,295 | $5,405–6,584 | $142 | $4.7 | $10.1 | 32–45d |
| 🇸🇩 Sudan | $5,919–7,235 | $6,193–7,569 | $244 | $7.2 | $10.4 | 35–37d |
| 🇹🇳 Tunisia | $3,496–4,295 | $5,405–6,584 | $142 | $4.7 | $10.1 | 32–34d |
| West Africa | ||||||
| 🇧🇯 Benin | $3,257–3,955 | $4,419–5,386 | $270 | $6.7 | $13.9 | 33–34d |
| 🇧🇫 Burkina Faso | $3,257–3,955 | $4,419–5,386 | $270 | $6.7 | $13.9 | 34–36d |
| 🇨🇻 Cabo Verde | $3,257–3,955 | $4,419–5,386 | $270 | $6.7 | $10.9 | 35–43d |
| 🇬🇲 Gambia | $3,257–3,955 | $4,419–5,386 | $270 | $6.7 | $13.9 | 32–40d |
| 🇬🇭 Ghana | $2,565–3,135 | $2,610–3,190 | $360 | $7.5 | $13.7 | 32–42d |
| 🇬🇳 Guinea | $3,257–3,955 | $4,419–5,386 | $270 | $6.7 | $13.9 | 32–37d |
| 🇬🇼 Guinea-Bissau | $3,257–3,955 | $4,419–5,386 | $270 | $6.7 | $13.9 | 33–44d |
| 🇨🇮 Ivory Coast | $2,565–3,135 | $2,610–3,190 | $235 | $8.1 | $14.7 | 33–36d |
| 🇱🇷 Liberia | $3,257–3,955 | $4,419–5,386 | $270 | $6.7 | $13.9 | 35–42d |
| 🇲🇱 Mali | $3,257–3,955 | $4,419–5,386 | $270 | $6.7 | $13.9 | 33–37d |
| 🇲🇷 Mauritania | $3,257–3,955 | $4,419–5,386 | $270 | $6.7 | $13.9 | 32–44d |
| 🇳🇪 Niger | $3,257–3,955 | $4,419–5,386 | $270 | $6.7 | $13.9 | 35–42d |
| 🇳🇬 Nigeria | $2,970–3,630 | $3,150–3,850 | $440 | $5.5 | $11.5 | 35–38d |
| 🇸🇳 Senegal | $3,083–3,768 | $3,915–4,785 | $480 | $6.9 | $10.9 | 34–39d |
| 🇸🇱 Sierra Leone | $3,257–3,955 | $4,419–5,386 | $270 | $6.7 | $13.9 | 34–42d |
| 🇹🇬 Togo | $2,565–3,135 | $2,610–3,190 | $120 | $10 | $16 | 33–44d |
| 🌳 Central Africa | ||||||
| 🇨🇲 Cameroon | $4,188–5,118 | $5,938–7,319 | $946 | $6.7 | $13.9 | 32–38d |
| 🇨🇫 Central African Rep. | $4,129–5,047 | $5,106–6,294 | $700 | $6.7 | $13.8 | 32–44d |
| 🇹🇩 Chad | $4,129–5,047 | $5,106–6,294 | $700 | $6.7 | $13.9 | 33–39d |
| 🇨🇬 Congo | $3,510–4,290 | $4,275–5,225 | $665 | $6.9 | $13.8 | 34–36d |
| 🇨🇩 DR Congo | $4,129–5,047 | $5,106–6,294 | $700 | $6.7 | $13.6 | 32–37d |
| 🇬🇶 Equatorial Guinea | $4,188–5,118 | $5,938–7,319 | $946 | $6.7 | $13.8 | 33–43d |
| 🇬🇦 Gabon | $4,188–5,118 | $5,938–7,319 | $946 | $6.7 | $13.8 | 34–40d |
| 🇸🇹 São Tomé | $4,188–5,118 | $5,938–7,319 | $946 | $6.7 | $13.8 | 34–39d |
| 🦁 East Africa | ||||||
| 🇧🇮 Burundi | $2,156–2,696 | $2,744–3,402 | $100 | $6.6 | $10.9 | 35–41d |
| 🇰🇲 Comoros | $2,156–2,696 | $2,744–3,402 | $100 | $6.6 | $11.5 | 32–37d |
| 🇩🇯 Djibouti | $2,156–2,696 | $2,744–3,402 | $100 | $6.6 | $8.8 | 34–39d |
| 🇪🇷 Eritrea | $2,156–2,696 | $2,744–3,402 | $100 | $6.6 | $8.8 | 33–38d |
| 🇪🇹 Ethiopia | $2,156–2,696 | $2,744–3,402 | $100 | $6.6 | $8.8 | 33–39d |
| 🇰🇪 Kenya | $1,620–1,980 | $1,890–2,310 | $70 | $5.5 | $8.8 | 35–43d |
| 🇲🇬 Madagascar | $2,156–2,696 | $2,744–3,402 | $100 | $6.6 | $11.5 | 32–35d |
| 🇲🇼 Malawi | $1,933–2,363 | $3,287–3,967 | $103 | $4.9 | $11.5 | 34–39d |
| 🇲🇺 Mauritius | $2,156–2,696 | $2,744–3,402 | $100 | $6.6 | $11.5 | 33–37d |
| 🇲🇿 Mozambique | $1,933–2,363 | $3,287–3,967 | $103 | $4.9 | $11.5 | 34–41d |
| 🇷🇼 Rwanda | $5,535–6,765 | $6,255–7,645 | $360 | $10 | $11.2 | 35–42d |
| 🇸🇨 Seychelles | $2,156–2,696 | $2,744–3,402 | $100 | $6.6 | $11.5 | 33–42d |
| 🇸🇴 Somalia | $2,156–2,696 | $2,744–3,402 | $100 | $6.6 | $8.8 | 35–41d |
| 🇸🇸 South Sudan | $2,156–2,696 | $2,744–3,402 | $100 | $6.6 | $8.8 | 32–44d |
| 🇹🇿 Tanzania | $2,156–2,696 | $2,744–3,402 | $100 | $6.6 | $8.8 | 35–44d |
| 🇺🇬 Uganda | $4,328–5,290 | $4,741–5,795 | $265 | $7.5 | $8.8 | 32–37d |
| Southern Africa | ||||||
| 🇦🇴 Angola | $1,933–2,363 | $3,287–3,967 | $103 | $4.9 | $11.5 | 33–38d |
| 🇧🇼 Botswana | $1,933–2,363 | $3,287–3,967 | $103 | $4.9 | $11.5 | 33–34d |
| 🇸🇿 Eswatini | $1,933–2,363 | $3,287–3,967 | $103 | $4.9 | $11.5 | 32–35d |
| 🇱🇸 Lesotho | $1,933–2,363 | $3,287–3,967 | $103 | $4.9 | $11.5 | 34–43d |
| 🇳🇦 Namibia | $1,933–2,363 | $3,287–3,967 | $103 | $4.9 | $11.5 | 34–38d |
| 🇿🇦 South Africa | $1,958–2,393 | $2,295–2,805 | $125 | $5.2 | $11.5 | 35–44d |
| 🇿🇲 Zambia | $1,933–2,363 | $3,287–3,967 | $103 | $4.9 | $11.5 | 32–38d |
| 🇿🇼 Zimbabwe | $1,933–2,363 | $3,287–3,967 | $103 | $4.9 | $11.5 | 34–39d |
What this means for shippers
- 🇿🇦 South Africa → Competitive rates at $1,823–2,228/20GP. Good value — book for March delivery.
- 🇳🇬 Nigeria → 20GP=40GP advantage. Same price for both container sizes — maximize 40GP for value.
- 🇰🇪 East Africa → Air value at $5.5/kg. Kenya/Tanzania rates competitive; Mombasa sea reliable.
- 🎆 March planning → Book for March arrivals. Extended transit times to Africa mean early booking essential.
- 📋 Documentation → SONCAPs and COCs ready. West Africa compliance critical — prepare docs early.
Middle East — March 2026
Attention — Middle East most exposed to Hormuz crisis; prices highly volatile. Gulf rates can shift daily with geopolitical developments. UAE, Saudi, Qatar — verify quotes at booking and request short validity. Air via Dubai/Doha hubs.
Attention — Highest volatility — Gulf region directly affected by Hormuz closure. Rates can change within 24–48 hours. Do not rely on quotes older than a few days — always reconfirm before confirming.
🇦🇪
UAE
≈ 0%
$2,920 (40GP)
🇸🇦
Saudi Arabia
↓ −20%
$2,150 (40GP)
🇮🇱
Israel
≈ 0%
$3,340 (40GP)
🇰🇼
Kuwait
↓ −54%
$1,400 (40GP)
🇶🇦
Qatar
≈ 0%
$3,050 (40GP)
Why it moved
- 🎆 CNY demand steady — Gulf importers booking ahead of factory shutdown; capacity available.
- 🏗️ Hub infrastructure — Jebel Ali, Jeddah, Hamad ready for post-CNY recovery.
- ✈️ Air excellent — Dubai DXB and Doha with strong bellyhold capacity at $6/kg.
- 🇦🇪 UAE multi-port — Jebel Ali $2,200, Abu Dhabi $2,400, Sharjah $2,600 — options available.
Rates at a glance
⚠️ Attention: Middle East is the most volatile region — Hormuz at the center. Rates can change within 24–48 hours; always confirm at booking.
| Country | Sea 20GP | Sea 40GP | LCL /CBM | Air /kg | Express /kg | Transit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🇦🇪 UAE | $2,614–3,576 | $3,115–4,372 | $16.2 | $3.9 | $9.8 | 9–12d |
| 🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia | $1,868–2,283 | $2,093–2,558 | $20 | $4 | $9.6 | 9–11d |
| 🇶🇦 Qatar | $2,614–3,576 | $3,462–4,359 | $23 | $3.8 | $10.2 | 8–13d |
| 🇰🇼 Kuwait | $1,778–2,173 | $1,868–2,283 | $35 | $4.2 | $10.2 | 10–13d |
| 🇧🇭 Bahrain | $2,614–3,576 | $3,462–4,359 | $23 | $3.8 | $10.2 | 8–13d |
| 🇴🇲 Oman | $2,614–3,576 | $3,462–4,359 | $23 | $3.8 | $10.2 | 9–12d |
| 🇮🇱 Israel | $2,428–2,967 | $3,854–4,710 | $59 | $4.5 | $11.2 | 10–12d |
| 🇯🇴 Jordan | $2,614–3,576 | $3,462–4,359 | $23 | $3.8 | $10.2 | 8–10d |
| 🇱🇧 Lebanon | $2,614–3,576 | $3,462–4,359 | $23 | $3.8 | $10.2 | 9–12d |
| 🇸🇾 Syria | $2,614–3,576 | $3,462–4,359 | $23 | $3.8 | $10.2 | 9–13d |
| 🇮🇶 Iraq | $2,614–3,576 | $3,462–4,359 | $23 | $3.8 | $10.2 | 8–14d |
| 🇮🇷 Iran | $2,614–3,576 | $3,462–4,359 | $23 | $3.8 | $10.9 | 10–13d |
| 🇾🇪 Yemen | $2,614–3,576 | $3,462–4,359 | $23 | $3.8 | $10.2 | 9–14d |
What this means for shippers
- 🇦🇪 UAE/KSA/Qatar → Lock in now. Rates stable — ideal time to secure 4–6 week validity contracts.
- 🇮🇱 Israel → Confirm surcharges at booking. Security premiums vary $200–400 by carrier — shop around.
- 🇮🇷🇮🇶 Iran/Iraq → Use Dubai transshipment. Direct services limited — Jebel Ali routing most reliable.
- ✈️ Air cargo → Predictable pricing. $6–6.4/kg steady — good for budgeting time-sensitive shipments.
Asia — March 2026
Attention — Oil supply risk from Hormuz affects energy costs; Asia rates can fluctuate. Japan/Korea ultra-competitive. India good value. Vietnam up. ME surcharges and Cape detours impact some lanes — verify prices at booking.
Attention — Oil/energy costs from Hormuz crisis can drive Asia rate swings. Intra-Asia generally more stable, but surcharges and bunker adjustments may apply — verify at booking.
🇯🇵
Japan
≈ 0%
$420 (40GP)
🇰🇷
South Korea
≈ 0%
$420 (40GP)
🇮🇳
India
↓ −41%
$850 (40GP)
🇧🇩
Bangladesh
↓ −9%
$1,120 (40GP)
🇻🇳
Vietnam
↑ +69%
$360 (40GP)
Why it moved
- 🇮🇳🇧🇩 South Asia value — India/Bangladesh rates down 9–41% — excellent value window for imports.
- 🇯🇵🇰🇷 Japan/Korea → Ultra-competitive at $350–420/40GP — best intra-Asia rates.
- 🎆 CNY origin — China-origin lanes critical; book now for March arrivals.
- 🚂 Rail options — Central Asia rail competitive at $3,000–4,000/40GP, 8–15 days transit.
- ✈️ Air stable — Regional air at $1.3–4.5/kg depending on destination.
Rates at a glance
⚠️ Attention: Oil/energy impact from Hormuz can affect Asia rates. Prices below are indicative — verify at booking.
| Country | Sea 20GP | Sea 40GP | LCL /CBM | Air /kg | Express /kg | Rail LCL | Rail 20GP | Rail 40GP | Transit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| East Asia | |||||||||
| 🇯🇵 Japan | $315–385 | $540–660 | $10 | $1.5 | $10.2 | — | — | — | 9–10d |
| 🇰🇷 South Korea | $459–561 | $540–660 | $10 | $1.7 | $5.5 | — | — | — | 8–12d |
| 🇹🇼 Taiwan | $459–561 | $540–660 | $10 | $1.7 | $5 | — | — | — | 10–13d |
| 🇰🇵 North Korea | $459–561 | $540–660 | $10 | $1.7 | $5.5 | — | — | — | 9–15d |
| 🇲🇳 Mongolia | $3,646–4,521 | $5,714–7,000 | $100 | $6.4 | $10.9 | $180 | $3,564–4,356 | $5,184–6,336 | 9–10d |
| Southeast Asia (ASEAN) | |||||||||
| 🇸🇬 Singapore | $306–374 | $450–550 | $5 | $2.1 | $4 | — | — | — | 9–11d |
| 🇲🇾 Malaysia | $338–413 | $608–743 | $5 | $2 | $4.8 | — | — | — | 8–10d |
| 🇹🇭 Thailand | $234–286 | $387–473 | $5 | $1.3 | $3.8 | — | — | — | 10–13d |
| 🇻🇳 Vietnam | $144–176 | $226–276 | $5 | $1.4 | $3.5 | — | — | — | 8–13d |
| 🇮🇩 Indonesia | $324–396 | $612–748 | $5 | $2.1 | $3.7 | — | — | — | 10–14d |
| 🇵🇭 Philippines | $180–222 | $270–330 | $5 | $2.3 | $4.5 | — | — | — | 10–11d |
| 🇰🇭 Cambodia | $400–550 | $650–850 | $5 | $1.8 | $5 | — | — | — | 10–12d |
| 🇲🇲 Myanmar | $400–550 | $650–850 | $5 | $1.8 | $5.5 | — | — | — | 9–14d |
| 🇱🇦 Laos | $400–550 | $650–850 | $5 | $1.8 | $5.5 | — | — | — | 9–12d |
| 🇧🇳 Brunei | $400–550 | $650–850 | $5 | $1.8 | $5.5 | — | — | — | 9–10d |
| 🇹🇱 Timor-Leste | $400–550 | $650–850 | $5 | $1.8 | $6 | — | — | — | 9–13d |
| South Asia | |||||||||
| 🇮🇳 India | $1,035–1,265 | $1,100–1,345 | $10 | $4.9 | $7.2 | — | — | — | 10–14d |
| 🇵🇰 Pakistan | $1,125–1,375 | $1,373–1,678 | $15 | $5 | $8 | — | — | — | 9–10d |
| 🇧🇩 Bangladesh | $1,377–1,683 | $1,688–2,063 | $70 | $6.6 | $7.2 | — | — | — | 10–15d |
| 🇱🇰 Sri Lanka | $1,125–1,375 | $1,373–1,678 | $45 | $5.5 | $8.8 | — | — | — | 10–15d |
| 🇳🇵 Nepal | $1,475–1,877 | $1,608–2,010 | $45 | $4.6 | $7.8 | — | — | — | 10–12d |
| 🇧🇹 Bhutan | $1,475–1,877 | $1,608–2,010 | $45 | $4.6 | $7.8 | — | — | — | 9–12d |
| 🇲🇻 Maldives | $1,475–1,877 | $1,608–2,010 | $45 | $4.6 | $7.8 | — | — | — | 10–14d |
| 🇦🇫 Afghanistan | $2,500–3,100 | $4,000–4,900 | $100 | $5.5 | $7.8 | — | — | — | 9–15d |
| Central Asia & Caucasus | |||||||||
| 🇰🇿 Kazakhstan | $3,352–4,157 | $5,359–6,565 | $100 | $5.6 | $10.9 | $140 | $2,772–3,388 | $4,031–4,928 | 10–12d |
| 🇺🇿 Uzbekistan | $3,352–4,157 | $5,359–6,565 | $100 | $5.6 | $10.9 | $160 | $3,168–3,872 | $4,608–5,632 | 8–15d |
| 🇹🇲 Turkmenistan | $3,352–4,157 | $5,359–6,565 | $100 | $5.6 | $10.9 | $180 | $3,564–4,356 | $5,184–6,336 | 10–14d |
| 🇰🇬 Kyrgyzstan | $3,352–4,157 | $5,359–6,565 | $100 | $5.6 | $10.9 | $150 | $2,970–3,630 | $4,320–5,280 | 9–11d |
| 🇹🇯 Tajikistan | $3,352–4,157 | $5,359–6,565 | $100 | $5.6 | $10.9 | $170 | $3,366–4,114 | $4,896–5,984 | 9–13d |
| 🇬🇪 Georgia | $2,000–2,450 | $3,200–3,900 | $70 | $4.4 | $10.2 | — | — | — | 9–15d |
| 🇦🇿 Azerbaijan | $2,000–2,450 | $3,200–3,900 | $70 | $4.4 | $10.2 | — | — | — | 9–10d |
| 🇦🇲 Armenia | $2,000–2,450 | $3,200–3,900 | $70 | $4.4 | $10.2 | — | — | — | 10–11d |
What this means for shippers
- 🇮🇳 India → Excellent value at −41%. Book now — best rates in months. Secure space before CNY shutdown.
- 🇻🇳 Vietnam → Up +69% from January. Rates rising — compare carriers and book early.
- 🇮🇩 Indonesia → Confirm rates at booking. High volatility (−9% to +19%) — don't rely on old quotes.
- 🇯🇵 Japan → Lock in now. Stable rates + reliable service — ideal for contract renewals.
- 🇵🇭 Philippines air → Opportunity at $1.3/kg. −28.6% dip = excellent value for urgent shipments.
- Central Asia → Consider rail. 18–22 day transit competitive with sea for time-sensitive cargo.
Oceania — March 2026
Attention — Indirect ME impact: oil prices and equipment repositioning can cause rate swings. Australia and New Zealand less exposed but global volatility applies. Verify quotes at booking — short validity recommended.
Attention — Oceania less exposed but global volatility applies. Oil prices and equipment repositioning from ME crisis can cause rate swings — verify quotes at booking.
🇦🇺
Australia
↓ −51%
$1,300 (40GP)
🇳🇿
New Zealand
↓ −20%
$1,950 (40GP)
🇵🇬
Papua NG
≈ 0%
$2,250 (40GP)
🇫🇯
Fiji
≈ 0%
$2,250 (40GP)
🇼🇸
Samoa
≈ 0%
$2,250 (40GP)
Why it moved
- 🇦🇺 Normalized post-peak — November peak demand completed; rates stabilized with uniform port pricing.
- 🎆 CNY countdown — 7 days until shutdown — book urgently for pre-CNY delivery or March arrivals.
- ✈️ Air competitive — Air rates at $3.8–4.2/kg; good capacity for March arrivals.
- 📦 LCL bargain — Exceptional $5/cbm LCL rates — best value for smaller shipments.
Rates at a glance
⚠️ Attention: Global volatility from ME crisis affects all lanes. Prices below are indicative — confirm at booking.
| Country | Sea 20GP | Sea 40GP | LCL /CBM | Air /kg | Express /kg | Transit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🇦🇺 Australia | $1,035–1,265 | $2,025–2,475 | $5 | $1.6 | $6.1 | 20–27d |
| 🇳🇿 New Zealand | $900–1,100 | $1,755–2,145 | $5 | $4 | $6.7 | 20–23d |
| 🇫🇯 Fiji | $1,586–1,982 | $3,277–3,960 | $10 | $2.6 | $6.4 | 20–27d |
| 🇵🇬 Papua New Guinea | $1,586–1,982 | $3,277–3,960 | $10 | $2.6 | $6.4 | 20–24d |
| 🇼🇸 Samoa | $1,586–1,982 | $3,277–3,960 | $10 | $2.6 | $6.4 | 20–25d |
| 🇹🇴 Tonga | $1,586–1,982 | $3,277–3,960 | $10 | $2.6 | $6.4 | 20–25d |
| 🇻🇺 Vanuatu | $1,586–1,982 | $3,277–3,960 | $10 | $2.6 | $6.4 | 20–22d |
| 🇸🇧 Solomon Islands | $1,586–1,982 | $3,277–3,960 | $10 | $2.6 | $6.4 | 20–24d |
| 🇰🇮 Kiribati | $1,586–1,982 | $3,277–3,960 | $10 | $2.6 | $6.4 | 20–21d |
| 🇫🇲 Micronesia | $1,586–1,982 | $3,277–3,960 | $10 | $2.6 | $6.4 | 20–25d |
| 🇵🇼 Palau | $1,586–1,982 | $3,277–3,960 | $10 | $2.6 | $6.4 | 20–28d |
| 🇲🇭 Marshall Islands | $1,586–1,982 | $3,277–3,960 | $10 | $2.6 | $6.4 | 20–27d |
| 🇳🇷 Nauru | $1,586–1,982 | $3,277–3,960 | $10 | $2.6 | $6.4 | 20–22d |
| 🇹🇻 Tuvalu | $1,586–1,982 | $3,277–3,960 | $10 | $2.6 | $6.4 | 20–28d |
What this means for shippers
- 🇦🇺 Australia → Uniform pricing across ports. Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane all at same rates — simplifies planning.
- 🇳🇿 New Zealand → Stable after Nov peak. Rates normalized — good window for post-CNY delivery.
- 📦 LCL bargain → Exceptional $5/cbm. Best LCL value in Oceania — ideal for smaller shipments.
- ✈️ Air competitive → $3.8–4.2/kg. Good capacity — use for March shipments.
- 🎆 March planning → Book for March arrivals. Factory restart late Feb — plan 3–4 weeks transit.