Despite the many uncertainties facing the container shipping industry in 2025 and the risks of overcapacity in the years to come, the market for the sale and purchase of second-hand boxships remained busy throughout the year, with a high demand for tonnage in most segments.
Alphaliner highlights that last year 332 containerships were sold, with a total capacity of 859,000 TEUs. This represents a slight drop compared to 2024 when 333 units were sold, for a total of 1.1 million TEUs.
The most sought-after second-hand vessels were 900 – 2,000 TEU capacity ones. 162 were sold, i.e. +60% compared to the previous year. 54% of the total (92 units) were 2,000 – 5,100 TEU ships. 18% were 5,100 – 10,000 TEU vessels (totaling 245,000 TEUs).
As far as larger vessels are concerned, 8,000 – 8,900 TEU ones proved to be the most popular, with 21 being sold. Sales were very low for + 10,000 TEU vessels, with only four changes of ownership in the 13,000 to 14,500 TEU segment.
Translation by Giles Foster
