Although the third quarter is traditionally the peak season for maritime shipping, recent uncertainties surrounding President Trump's tariff policies have led to a significant 70% drop in freight rates on the US West Coast route and a 50% drop on the US East Coast route, showing a trend of the "peak season not being prosperous."

Industry insiders point out that freight rates on the US West Coast route are nearing cost levels, leading two shipping companies to begin reducing capacity. With the end of the rush to ship and factors like Asian currency appreciation, traders are carefully planning their shipment arrangements.

Freight rate data indicates that the third quarter was supposed to be the peak period for US exports, but rates on the China-US route have sharply declined, dampening exporters' enthusiasm. Rates on the US East Coast route have fallen to $3300-3800 per FEU, while on the US West Coast route, they are at $1700-1800 per FEU. Compared to the peak in early June, rates on the US East Coast have dropped by 50%, while the US West Coast has seen a steep 70% decline.

The drop in rates can be attributed to two main factors: traders' concerns about tariff adjustments leading to an early rush of shipments and subdued market shipment volumes; and the far-reaching impact of US tariff policies on exporters. US line exports are closely tied to tariff policies, and a decrease in US consumer spending is also a contributing factor to the rate decline.

In response to market changes, shipping companies are adjusting their capacity layouts. Companies like MSC and COSCO Shipping have reduced capacity on the US West Coast route. If rates continue to remain low, it is expected that these companies will further optimize their capacity allocations. While the outlook for the second half of the year is pessimistic, there is a belief that certain regions or niche markets may present development opportunities.