As we enter the second half of July 2026, the global ocean freight market is showing mixed trends across major trade lanes. While North America remains under pressure from limited capacity, several emerging markets are beginning to experience rate corrections. At BRF Logistik, we continue to monitor carrier pricing, vessel space, and port conditions to help customers make informed shipping decisions.
North America (USA & Canada)
The most significant changes continue to occur on the North American routes. Compared with the end of June, freight rates have increased sharply due to strong cargo demand and carrier capacity control.
Hapag-Lloyd (HPL) currently offers the lowest quotations, although these rates are only available for limited early-July sailings. Wan Hai (WHL) remains the next most competitive option, with freight rates reaching approximately USD 6,200 to the U.S. West Coast dan around USD 7,300 to the U.S. East Coast.
Although prices have stabilized compared with the first week of July, vessel space remains tight. Exporters are advised to secure bookings at least two weeks in advance.
Eropa
European freight rates experienced a rapid increase during early July before entering a relatively stable phase. During mid-July, slight corrections appeared as additional capacity entered the market.
Shipping lines within the Premier Alliance continue offering voyage-specific promotional rates, and these special offers are expected to remain available for selected mid-July departures. Overall demand remains healthy, but pricing pressure has eased compared with early July.
Middle East
The Middle East market continues to face space shortages despite some price adjustments.
MSC announced that vessels with July 9 closing dates were fully booked several days in advance, demonstrating continued strong demand. Limited last-minute space remains available in the market.
Meanwhile, Emirates Shipping Line (ESL) has released updated freight rates with modest reductions, valid for sailings with cargo cut-off dates through July 13. Exporters should monitor carrier announcements closely, as pricing can change rapidly based on vessel utilization.
Red Sea
The Red Sea market remains one of the most challenging routes.
Sailings to Jeddah have become increasingly limited, while severe port congestion continues to affect vessel schedules. Shenzhen departures are particularly constrained, with PIL offering only limited sailings after July 6, followed by the next available vessel around July 18.
Wan Hai has suspended acceptance for some July 10 sailings, and several Shenzhen departures have experienced blank sailings, leaving limited capacity until late July.
Customers shipping to Saudi Arabia should expect longer transit times and book well in advance.
India & Pakistan
The Indian Subcontinent continues to show regional differences.
West India freight rates are still gradually declining due to improved capacity, while East India has entered a more stable pricing period. Pakistan routes remain competitive, with several carriers maintaining existing rates or introducing further reductions.
West Africa
MSC has announced another round of freight reductions for West Africa effective after July 12. Increased vessel availability has eased previous capacity pressure, creating better opportunities for exporters shipping to the region.
South America
South America is entering a downward pricing cycle.
West Coast South America base rates have adjusted to approximately USD 5,050, with additional reductions expected after July 15.
East Coast South America has also begun declining, and further adjustments are anticipated throughout the remainder of July as carriers compete for cargo.
Special Notice: Venezuela
Exporters shipping to Venezuela should pay close attention to recent port developments.
Due to significant damage at La Guaira Port, many vessels scheduled to call there have been redirected to Puerto Cabello. To minimize delays and unexpected routing changes, BRF Logistics recommends selecting Puerto Cabello whenever possible for current shipments.
Outlook
Looking ahead to the remainder of July, North America and Red Sea routes are expected to remain capacity-driven, while Europe stabilizes and emerging markets such as South America, West Africa, and India continue seeing gradual rate reductions.
BRF Logistik recommends booking shipments early, maintaining flexibility on carrier selection, and monitoring market updates closely to secure the most competitive freight solutions.
