Golden Week Slowdown Fails to Ease Transpacific Freight Rate Pressure

China’s Golden Week holiday may offer limited relief from elevated transpacific ocean freight rates, as weather-related disruptions, port congestion and vessel capacity adjustments continue to influence the market. The week-long holiday, which ran from 1 to 7 October 2026, typically slows factory production and logistics activity across China. However, the expected reduction in cargo volumes has been offset by ongoing disruptions at major Asian ports and additional blank sailings. According to market data reported on 6 October, spot freight rates from Asia to the US West Coast declined by 3% week-on-week to US$8,322 per forty-foot equivalent unit (FEU). Rates from Asia to the US East Coast remained unchanged at US$9,606 per FEU. Port congestion remains a significant concern. Weather-related disruptions have contributed to vessel bunching, port omissions and schedule changes, while accumulated cargo volumes are extending recovery times. At Shanghai, the report highlighted substantial vessel backlogs and delays of approximately seven to ten days. The market had also experienced an extended peak shipping season, partly driven by importers bringing shipments forward ahead of US tariff deadlines and associated surcharges. Although seasonal demand is expected to moderate, continuing operational disruptions could keep transpacific freight rates elevated into October. The combination of reduced holiday activity and restricted shipping capacity means that a significant rate correction is not guaranteed. Freight pricing will continue to depend on vessel deployment, port recovery and the balance between available capacity and cargo demand. GERMANY