A combination of very strong cargo demand in Asia and an increasing shortage of 40’ containers has seen spot rates for Chinese export rising sharply over the last few weeks, with the Shanghai Containerized Freight Index (SCFI) last Friday reaching its highest level since its launch in October 2009.
Getting empty 40’ containers in China to take advantage of the lucrative rates on headhaul trades has become a top priority for the carriers.
Carrying cargo at low rates on backhaul trades is obviously becoming less interesting as the inland transport and the stuffing & stripping of the boxes take extra time.
Source: Alphaliner
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