News / Boxship owners see 13-year high in charter rates as carriers hunt for tonnage

© Marcus Millo |

Containership charter rates have hit 13-year highs and shipowners are locking these in with carriers on three- and five-year charters.

Alphaliner says the supply of container tonnage “remains tight across the board” as unrelenting cargo demand and chronic port congestion tie up the world’s  box ship fleet.

The consultant’s Charter Rate Index has reached its highest level in 13 years and it said that with the outlook bullish for owners, they would “retain the upper hand for some time”.

Indeed, one London broker ...