November 2025 Freight Rate Trends: Transpacific Declines and Asia-Europe Stability

Freight Market Movements in November 2025

The freight market is shifting gears this November with transpacific ocean freight rates dipping after recent peak season hikes, while Asia-Europe maritime lanes display a firmer stance. This update lays out which routes saw price swings and what air cargo tells us about ongoing trade dynamics.

Weekly Ocean Freight Highlights

While certain Asia-Europe and Europe-America routes continue to show modest upticks, transpacific container rates tell a different story altogether.

Transpacific Ocean Freight Sees Steep Rate Erosion

After aggressive General Rate Increases (GRIs) pushed prices upward in early November, transpacific freight rates are now backpedaling, sliding down by more than 20% on a daily basis. West Coast port receivals have fallen roughly 6% last week and have dipped to about $2,100 per FEU (forty-foot equivalent unit) this week, erasing gains from the start of the month and realigning with mid-October levels.

On the East Coast, similar retrenchments are apparent as daily rates drop back to pre-October GRI standards, hovering near $3,000/FEU—a sign that carriers might hesitate before imposing new December GRIs given this sharp retreat.

Asia-Europe Freight Holds Firm

In contrast, Asia-Europe and Mediterranean lanes maintain relative price stability. Weekly rates linger around $2,480/FEU and $2,827/FEU, respectively, supported by stringent blanked sailing tactics and ongoing tender season dynamics. Some carriers are preparing to introduce additional GRIs aimed at elevating prices into the $3,000-$4,000/FEU zone, slated for either late November or early December, keeping the market cautiously optimistic about upward pricing flexibility.

Air Cargo Trends Highlight Capacity and Demand Dynamics

The conclusion of the US government shutdown has revived air cargo operations that were throttled by controller shortages, particularly affecting domestic shipments. Recovery will pace gradually over several days. Changes in customs policies, like the US’s cancellation of de minimis exemptions this year, have driven initial volume declines, pushing e-commerce cargo flows in Asia towards Europe, signaling a geographical shift in demand.

• China to US air freight rates surged 5% last week, reaching $6.60/kg—the year’s highest sustained level influenced by seasonal demand.
• China to Europe rates grew 2%, now around $4.01/kg, rebounding from Golden Week dips.
• Transatlantic air freight climbed 6% to $2.31/kg, marking the strongest rates since March.

Implications for Logistics and Cargo Management

These ocean rate oscillations coupled with air freight capacity adjustments highlight the complex dance between supply, demand, and strategic carrier capacity decisions. For logistics planners and freight forwarders, such fluctuations necessitate agility in booking and pricing strategies, especially as rate volatility affects budgeting and contract negotiations.

With seasonal slackness colliding with capacity expansions, carriers’ attempts to firm rates face resistance, underlining the critical importance of timing in booking freight. Shippers looking to move cargo internationally or planning relocations involving bulky or palletized items should keep a keen eye on market signals to optimize cost and timing.

Factors Behind Rate Movements

• Gestion des capacités : Carriers’ strategy of reducing capacity helped preserve rates earlier but softening demand now presses rates downward, especially on transpacific routes.
• Demande saisonnière : Typical seasonal slowdowns after peak shipping periods contribute to current downward rate pressures.
• Government Policies: Shifts in tariffs and trade frameworks affect shipment volumes and carrier pricing strategies, indirectly influencing freight logistics.
• Air Cargo Rebalancing: Policy changes and capacity constraints have redirected air volume flows, impacting cargo speed and cost across continents.

How This Affects Global Freight and Your Logistics Plans

Although the steep decline in transpacific ocean rates might seem like a hiccup to some, it reflects the natural ebb and flow in a dynamic market balancing capacity and demand. Asia-Europe’s steadier rates suggest enduring trade connections and disciplined carrier tactics. The overall mixed signals necessitate sharper logistics planning and real-time market monitoring to secure the best deals on international shipments.

Quick Rate Snapshot: Ocean Cargo and Air Freight

The Bigger Picture: Navigating Rate Volatility

For those managing logistics operations, whether shipping parcels, bulky goods, or planning office and home moves, such rate shifts emphasize the value of flexibility and early booking where possible. Platforms like GetTransport.com pave the way by offering affordable, reliable global freight and cargo transportation options — from moving furniture to large-scale relocation shipments — simplifying the logistics puzzle for businesses and individuals alike.

Réflexions finales

Tracking the latest freight rate changes provides vital clues for businesses relying on international transportation and freight forwarding. While transpacific rates ebb, Asia-Europe’s relative stability underscores the differing market pressures. Air freight’s upswing confirms robust seasonal demand, yet also hints at realignments in capacity and shipment patterns. The interplay of these factors highlights the importance of savvy, adaptive planning in global logistics to ensure your cargo’s timely and cost-effective delivery.

Even the most detailed freight rate reports and honest market reviews can only get you so far — nothing quite beats firsthand experience. With GetTransport.com, customers enjoy transparent, easy access to the best shipping offers worldwide. It empowers you to arrange your cargo moves at competitive prices without the guesswork or hidden fees, whether it’s housemoves, bulky freight, pallets, or vehicles. The platform’s versatility and affordability make it an excellent ally in a market where timing and price dynamics can make or break shipment strategies. Réservez votre trajet à GetTransport.com and take control of your logistics today.

Looking ahead, these rate trends may not trigger seismic shifts in global logistics, but they are a clear reminder of the ever-changing tides carriers and shippers navigate. Staying informed allows you to anticipate costs, adjust schedules, and optimize shipments efficiently. GetTransport.com keeps pace with industry changes and is ready to support your cargo needs wherever in the world you are moving freight. Start planning your next delivery and secure your cargo with GetTransport.com.

In summary, November 2025 introduces a period of adjustment in ocean and air freight pricing. Transpacific ocean rates have softened markedly after October uplifts, while Asia-Europe lanes maintain steadiness bolstered by strategic carrier actions. Air cargo prices continue a gentle climb driven by seasonal demand and capacity shifts. For anyone connected to cargo shipment, be it international freight forwarding or global logistics, these developments highlight the need for vigilance and flexibility. Leveraging platforms like GetTransport.com ensures access to reliable, affordable, and convenient freight transportation services, enhancing your operational readiness in a fluctuating market.