Global container volumes hit record 17.46 million TEUs in August

Container Trades Statistics reported that global container shipping volumes reached a record 17.46 million twenty-foot equivalent units in August in its Oct. 8 report. August liftings were 3.7% higher than in August 2025, pushing year‑to‑date volumes up 4.7% year‑over‑year compared with the same period last year.

The CTS Global Price Index rose two points to 117 in August, its highest level since July 2024, while overall North American container imports were up 2% through August versus the same period last year and Sub‑Saharan Africa imports grew 13% through August. The combined Indian Sub‑Continent and Middle East region saw imports fall 5% and exports drop 10% year‑to‑date, while steady Asia exports increased 8% year‑to‑date, adding roughly 6.3 million TEUs and trans‑Pacific trade rose 5% year‑to‑date. August volumes were 7.2% higher than in August 2024 and 12.9% above August 2023 levels. The Global Price Index was about 50% above its January level and 44% higher than in August 2025, and CTS warned that slowing month‑to‑month growth could signal a moderation in demand heading into the final quarter.

The previous record was set in July 2026. Earlier in 2026, North American imports had posted negative year‑to‑date growth before a gradual recovery began in May.

What we know

Global container shipping volumes reached a record 17.46 million TEUs in August.
August liftings were 3.7% higher than in August 2025.
Through the first eight months of 2026, global volumes were up 4.7% year over year.
CTS’ Global Price Index rose two points from July to 117 in August, its highest reading since July 2024.
North American container imports were up 2% through August compared with the same period last year.