Exceed $7,000! Shipping Rate Hikes China to US by Major Carriers

Several major shipping lines have announced significant rate increases for services from China to the United States, with surcharges ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 per 40-foot container, set to take effect as early as this week.

The rate adjustments come amid surging bookings on US-bound routes, triggering what logistics insiders are calling an “overnight booking frenzy.” YQN Logistics’ trans-Pacific shipping expert was recently interviewed by CCTV to comment on the escalating situation.

1. Matson

America Carrier, Matson has announced that from 22 May, freight rates on 40-foot containers shipped from Shanghai, Ningbo, and Xiamen to the US will rise by $1,500.

2. MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company)

Starting 1 June, MSC plans to introduce a Peak Season Surcharge (PSS) of up to $1,600–$2,000 per container. Freight rates to key US West Coast ports—including Vancouver, Long Beach, Los Angeles, Oakland, and Seattle—are expected to return to approximately $6,000 per 40-foot container.

3. Hapag-Lloyd

Hapag-Lloyd will implement a rate increase of $3,000 per 40-foot container on US-bound routes beginning 1 June, marking one of the steepest single adjustments this year.

4. CMA CGM

CMA CGM has notified clients of a planned rate increase effective 1–14 June. Sea freight rates to the US West Coast will rise to $6,100 per 40-foot container, while shipments to the East Coast will increase to $7,100.

5. Ocean Network Express (ONE)

ONE has informed customers of a $1,000 increase in FAK (Freight All Kinds) rates for US routes. Additionally, a more substantial Peak Season Surcharge of up to $2,000 per container is expected from 21 May.

6. Evergreen Marine

Evergreen is set to raise rates by $700 per 40-foot container under a General Rate Increase (GRI) from 15 to 31 May. On top of that, a second surcharge of $1,500 will be introduced on 23 May, bringing the total increase to as much as $2,200 for May shipments.

Other carriers, including HMM and COSCO, have also issued notices of price adjustments beginning 15 May, with increases ranging from $800 to $1,000 per container.

Meanwhile, Maersk said on 12 May that it is working closely with clients to help them take advantage of the current 90-day trade window. In a statement, the company described the recent US–China tariff agreement as “a step in the right direction,” expressing hope that it will pave the way for a long-term deal that provides predictability for customers.

As capacity tightens and demand surges, shippers and importers should expect elevated container shipping rates from China to US in the weeks ahead. Early booking and strategic logistics planning remain crucial for businesses navigating this volatile market. More logistics information is available at info@yqn.com.