Boxship orderbook hits post-2009 peak as charter rates climb

· Shipping · China

The container shipping orderbook has swollen to 16.2 million teu, equal to 46.5% of the active fleet — the highest share since 2009 — as carriers race to secure ultra-large tonnage, according to The Loadstar. Chinese shipyards alone have booked a record 4.94 million teu this year, accounting for 88% of total newbuilding activity, and orders show no sign of slowing. At the same time, containership charter rates have climbed to a four-year high despite falling fixtures. Braemar's charter index stands at 325.8, up 21% year on year and its highest level since autumn 2022. The two data points point to a market in which owners are locking in capacity now, even as record newbuilding deliveries loom in 2028 and could weigh on rates once the tonnage enters service.

Why it matters：Record ordering alongside four-year-high charter rates shows carriers betting on continued scale competition, but the 2028 delivery wave could upend freight economics for the entire container supply chain.

Key points

  • Orderbook at 16.2 million teu equals 46.5% of the active fleet, a post-2009 peak
  • Chinese yards booked 4.94 million teu this year, 88% of global newbuilding orders
  • Braemar charter index at 325.8, up 21% year on year despite fewer fixtures

Sources (original reporting)

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