Global Container Volumes Hit Record 17.46 Million TEUs in August; Freight Rates at Two-Year High

Global container shipping volumes reached a record 17.46 million twenty-foot equivalent units in August, surpassing July's previous high and rising 3.7% year over year, Container Trades Statistics said in an Oct. 8 report. CTS' Global Price Index climbed two points to 117 in August, its highest reading since July 2024, roughly 50% above January levels and 44% above August 2025. CTS attributed the increase to route disruptions that have tightened capacity and raised operating costs since late February. Year-to-date volumes through August rose 4.7%. North American imports gained 2%, extending a recovery begun in May, while trans-Pacific trade rose 5%. Sub-Saharan Africa led regional import growth at 13%. The combined Indian Sub-Continent and Middle East region was the sole decliner, with imports down 5% and exports down 10%. Asia exports rose 8% year to date, adding about 6.3 million TEUs. CTS cautioned that slowing month-to-month growth could signal moderating demand heading into the fourth quarter.