November 6, 2026. The Shanghai Containerized Freight Index (SCFI) fell 53.9 points, or 1.46 %, to 3,633.45, ending four straight weekly gains. Taiwanese financial portal Cnyes says it is the index's lowest level since mid-September. On the same day the China Containerized Freight Index (CCFI) rose 0.3 % to 1,881.82.
Rates by lane
Economic Daily News published this week's breakdown:
- Far East to US West Coast: 7,381 dollars per 40-foot container, down 98 dollars (−1.31 %).
- Far East to US East Coast: 9,857 dollars per 40-foot container, down 342 dollars (−3.35 %).
- Far East to North Europe: 2,325 dollars per 20-foot container, down 45 dollars (−1.89 %).
- Far East to the Mediterranean: 3,393 dollars per 20-foot container, up 43 dollars (+1.28 %).
Why rates eased
Forwarders quoted by Cnyes point to the season: November is usually quieter once Thanksgiving and Christmas cargo has sailed. Weak demand in Europe points to stable, low rates there. On US lanes, both outlets still expect high rates, citing port congestion, rail delays and limited space, and Cnyes says carriers keep managing capacity. For reference, Cnyes reports MSC's November FAK rates at about 9,200 dollars per 40-foot box to the US West Coast and 13,247 dollars to the East Coast.
Both outlets also flag APEC-related traffic limits in Shenzhen that could slow shipments from South China.
Our take
A pause in increases is a window to negotiate before year end and Chinese New Year on February 6, 2027. Freight is still expensive, but it has stopped climbing for now.
- Lock in sea freight space and departure dates in writing for first-quarter orders.
- Compare DDP quotes to see total landed cost, not just the freight line.
- Schedule a product inspection before the factory closes for the holiday.
The next SCFI comes out on Friday, November 13.
