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Liner Giants Drive Containership Charter Rates Higher in Scramble for Tonnage

Major European liner operators are competing aggressively for available containership capacity, pushing timecharter rates sharply higher across most vessel segments. The one-year timecharter rate for 1,700 teu geared vessels climbed to $34,100 per day in September from $28,800 in June, while 6,500 teu gearless benchmarks increased to $78,300 daily from $68,400 over the same period. Larger vessel classes have experienced the steepest rate increases, though actual fixture activity remains sparse. Non-operating owners hold significant negotiating power as vessel availability tightens in both near and medium-term horizons. Liner companies increasingly secure tonnage through charter agreements extending two to three years with forward delivery dates. Market sentiment softened slightly in late September after peaking during summer, yet charterers continue accepting elevated rates in liquid market segments.