Why Are Charter Rates Still So High?

Spot freight is turning. The price of controlling a ship is not.

Freight rates have started to soften.

Some carriers are testing shorter Suez routings.

And nearly 9m TEU of new capacity is due in 2027–2028.

Yet containership charter rates remain exceptionally strong.

• 8,500-TEU vessel still commands around $76,000 per day.

• 5,600-TEU ship costs about $64,000.

• 4,000-TEU ship costs around $55,000.

Carriers are still competing for tonnage.

So why is the charter market refusing to turn?

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Two prices. Two clocks.

Freight rates price the next container slot.