Transatlantic box volumes boom but return of bigger ships weighs on freight rates
- Front-loading to avoid tariff rises has boosted box volumes on the transatlantic trade
- Introduction of larger ships by Gemini Alliance and MSC has reduced load factors and subsequently freight rates
- ACL reports that strong UK exports have offset downturns in EU volumes
Eastbound transatlantic container volumes have been especially strong since the beginning of 2025, but there are expectations of a downturn in the second half
