China-US container rates hit 2-year high ahead of tariff changes

TransportationCompanies rush to get holiday goods through customs before potential increaseA cargo ship plies the waters off the coast of New York in June. (Photo by Naoki Watanabe)SHOKO HIRUTAJuly 18, 2026 03:05 JSTTOKYO -- Spot freight rates for container ships traveling from China to the U.S. have hit the highest level in nearly two years, as retailers and other businesses rush to bring in holiday season products ahead of a potential increase in tariff rates.