The wave of freight rate hikes that began on the Trans-Pacific routes has now reached Europe and the Mediterranean.
According to the latest updates from industry sources, several major shipping lines have officially announced significant rate increases for shipments from China to Europe and the Mediterranean, effective June 2025. These adjustments reflect a steep rise—up to 70% in some cases—compared to current market levels.
For example, shipping costs for 40-foot containers to base ports in Northern Europe are expected to rise from around USD 1,800–2,000 to USD 3,100–3,300.
On May 14, MSC, the world’s largest container shipping company, issued a General Rate Increase (GRI) notice, stating that from June 1, 2025, new freight rates will apply from all Far East ports (including but not limited to Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia) to Northern Europe, the Mediterranean (Western, Eastern, Adriatic), North Africa, and the Black Sea.
Key updates from MSC include:
Far East to Northern Europe:
USD 1,920 / 20’DV, USD 3,200 / 40’DV-HCFar East to Western Mediterranean:
USD 3,500 / 20’DV, USD 5,000 / 40’DV-HC
On the same day, CMA CGM also released its new rate schedule. Starting June 1, 2025, the French carrier will raise Asia-to-Europe freight rates to:
USD 1,750 / 20’GP
USD 3,100 / 40’GP/40’HC/40’REEFER
Germany’s Hapag-Lloyd, the fifth largest container carrier globally, also issued a formal notice increasing its FAK (Freight All Kinds) rates between the Far East and Europe, effective June 1, 2025. The new rates apply to 20’ and 40’ dry, reefer, and high cube containers and include the Marine Fuel Recovery (MFR) surcharge.
In addition to these major players, other carriers such as COSCO, Evergreen, and Yang Ming have reportedly informed clients—via direct calls or emails—about upcoming rate hikes, with adjustments largely aligning with the increases set by MSC, CMA CGM, and Hapag-Lloyd.
This synchronized rate surge reflects rising operational costs and tightening capacity across key global trade lanes. Shippers are advised to prepare accordingly and consult with logistics partners to manage upcoming freight costs.
