Trans-Pacific Rates on the Rise for 2026

Transpacific spot ocean rates kicked off 2026 with a sharp week-over-week lift, driven by Lunar New Year pull-forward demand and carrier general rate increases (GRIs). Freightos reported Asia–U.S. West Coast pricing at $2,617/FEU—up 22% WoW and 30% higher than mid-December—while Asia–U.S. East Coast rates reached $3,757/FEU, up 12% WoW and 20% above mid-December. 

The climb follows a steadier late-December trend and contrasts with October’s softer market, when transpacific levels hit their lowest point since late 2023. Freightos also notes that even with pre-holiday momentum, 2026 volumes are projected to run ~10% lower year over year, and expanding capacity could keep YoY rate pressure in play once the holiday surge passes. 

At TLC, we’re tracking weekly indices, carrier space posture, and sailing reliability to help customers stay on schedule—without overcommitting to any single routing or rate environment. Reach out and we’ll map the cleanest options for your lanes—fast freight, handled with TLC.

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