Containership orderbook set to approach 16m teu by year-end

· Shipping

The global containership newbuilding orderbook has passed 15m teu and could approach 16m teu before the end of the year, according to new analysis from Alphaliner. Around 40 further 'megamax' contracts are expected to be signed, with Maersk and Yang Ming reportedly close to orders and CMA CGM and MSC also in line for large deals. The ordering wave shows no sign of slowing after an extraordinary run of contracting. The build-up matters because these vessels will be delivered into the fleet over the coming years, adding capacity that could weigh on freight rates once the current strong market cools.

Why it matters：The orderbook represents a large share of future fleet capacity, so its continued growth will shape the supply-demand balance and rate outlook for container shipping worldwide.

Key points

  • Alphaliner puts the orderbook above 15m teu, with roughly 40 more megamax contracts expected.
  • Maersk and Yang Ming orders are described as expected soon; CMA CGM and MSC are also cited.

Sources (original reporting)

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