Carriers Deploy Blanked Sailings to Stabilize Falling Freight Rates

Container shipping carriers are taking strategic capacity management steps to counteract three months of declining spot freight rates on major east-west trade lanes. After the post-peak season downturn, carriers have announced eight blanked sailings for the week ahead (up from two the prior week) and introduced new freight all kinds (FAK) pricing, with MSC setting rates at $4,500-$5,100 per 40ft and CMA CGM at $4,900-$5,200 per 40ft on Asia-Europe routes effective November 1. The actions signal tight capacity and carrier intent to defend pricing, though analyst forecasts suggest the new FAK levels may struggle to gain traction given European forwarders are receiving discounted offers. Spot rates showed modest recovery across all three major routes this week, with Asia-Europe seeing a second consecutive week of increases (Shanghai-Rotterdam up 3% to $3,632 per 40ft, Shanghai-Genoa up 5% to $4,152 per 40ft).

Transpacific rates stabilized with Shanghai-Los Angeles up 2% to $8,007 per 40ft. However, actual market prices remain below published indices, and aggressive discounting from niche carriers like ONE is putting pressure on baseline rates. The transatlantic westbound continued its months-long strength, with Rotterdam-New York at $3,181 per 40ft, up 3% week-on-week and 85% higher year-on-year. For supply chain professionals, this period represents a critical inflection point.

The capacity management tactics suggest carriers believe demand remains sufficient to support higher rates, but widespread discounting indicates shipper resistance. Peak season conclusions are creating natural volume seasonality on transpacific routes, while the Asia-Europe market continues to show weakness despite carrier interventions. Shippers should expect continued volatility and should lock in favorable spot rates where available, particularly on secondary lanes where niche carriers are offering below-market pricing.