Executive Summary
HYSUN’s Q3 2025 analysis reveals China’s used container market (covering major coastal ports from Tianjin to Shenzhen and key inland hubs) concluded the quarter with weak stability amid global economic headwinds and ongoing trade tensions. The traditional “Golden September” peak season failed to materialize, with the market characterized by weak supply and demand alongside declining volumes and prices.
Quarterly Performance
Our price index data shows a pattern of stepwise decline followed by weak stabilization:
Key Index Levels (End-of-Month)
- 20GP: 79.35 points (Q3 total: -8.6%)
- 40GP: 98.60 points (Q3 total: -6.3%)
- 40HC: 87.54 points (Q3 total: -6.2%)
Year-over-Year Comparison
All container types showed significant declines compared to Q3 2024:
- 20GP: -28.5% YoY
- 40GP: -12.2% YoY
- 40HC: -41.7% YoY
Monthly Breakdown
July: Markets continued the downward trend from Q2, with all container types declining 2.4-3.9% MoM amid tariff uncertainties.
August: Prices stabilized after mid-month policy adjustments, though the market remained sluggish with declines of 4.3-4.9% MoM.
September: The “Golden September” peak season failed to deliver, with minimal price changes (-0.4-1.7% MoM) but persistently weak transaction volumes.
Market Analysis
HYSUN assessment identifies three key factors driving Q3 performance:
- Global Demand Softness: Weakening consumer demand and manufacturing activity reduced container turnover
- Policy Volatility: Fluctuating trade policies created uncertainty, limiting long-term planning
- Sentiment Impact: Both buyers and sellers adopted wait-and-see approaches, reducing market liquidity
Q4 2025 Outlook
We anticipate the “Silver October” period will maintain the current pattern of low-level fluctuations:
- Prices expected to remain near current levels with limited upside potential
- Market balance remains fragile and susceptible to external shocks
- Significant price recovery unlikely in the short term
Strategic Recommendations
- Inventory Management: Maintain flexible stock levels, avoid accumulation
- Procurement Strategy: Utilize price stability for essential needs but defer major purchases
- Market Monitoring: Closely track trade policy developments and global demand signals
Hysun has an inventory of CW and NEW dry containers at main ports in China, as well as in North America, Europe and South Asia. For interested readers, please click the link below to view Hysun global inventory for Week 42.