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Delo.Indices: the level of cargo containerization in September rose to 6.9%

Delo Group has updated the key indicators of the container shipping market based on data for September 2026 — the values are presented on the Delo.Analytics portal.

According to the Delivery Cost Index*, transportation in September decreased by 4% compared to August, to 9,703 US dollars, due to the absence of a higher‑cost service via Novorossiysk in September. On average, in the third quarter, container shipping rates from China to Moscow increased by 86% compared to the same period last year, and over the first nine months of 2026 — by 32% compared to 2025.

The Route Competitiveness Index showed mixed dynamics in September. Routes via the Far East (0.80 on a scale from 0 to 1**) and railway border crossings (0.77) lost ground due to increased cargo processing times and the transfer of cargo to rail transport. The route via St. Petersburg (0.52) demonstrated the most noticeable improvement, thanks to reduced delivery times due to voyages along the Northern Sea Route without an increase in tariffs.

The level of Cargo Containerization rose to 6.9%, an increase of 0.3 percentage points compared to August. The growth was driven by the seasonal activation of grain supplies from Siberia, as well as the transportation of fertilizers, ferrous and non‑ferrous metals.

The Russian container transportation market in September 2026 amounted to 618,000 TEU, which is 4% higher than the August figure. The main contribution came from the Baltic ports, where the transshipment volume increased by 45% over the month.

* All indices are calculated for the transportation of a 40-foot container on the China–Moscow route, a key corridor for Russian imports.

** Based on Delo Group’s proprietary analytical model.

Delo.Indices is Delo Group’s analytical product bringing together key indicators and indices for the Russian container transportation market. It enables users to track changes in transportation costs and transit times, route competitiveness, containerization levels, and other parameters. The data are updated regularly based on Delo Group’s proprietary analytical model. Delo.Indices are published on the Delo.Analytics portal, which also features market trend reviews and expert analysis.

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