Global container shipping volumes hit record high in August 2026

Global container shipping volumes reached a record 17.46 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in August 2026, according to data from Container Trades Statistics Ltd (CTS). This surpasses the previous all-time high set in July 2026. Year-to-date volumes are up 4.7% compared to 2025, with the Far East leading global export growth by 8% year-to-date.

Freight rates have also increased, with the CTS Global Price Index rising to 117 points in August. This represents a roughly 50% increase since January 2026 and the highest level since July 2024. Reported headwinds include high fuel prices, disruptions in the Gulf, Panama Canal issues, and changing tariffs.

In the United States, the Port of Los Angeles reported its busiest month in 118 years, handling 1,042,652 TEUs in September 2026. Port Executive Director Gene Seroka attributed this to resilient consumer demand, inventory replenishment, and cargo reallocation as shippers navigate global trade route challenges. The port's first nine months of 2026 saw volumes increase by more than 3% compared to the same period last year.