Freight Market Report — Week 43, 2025

During Week 43 of 2025, the Black Sea freight market demonstrated mixed dynamics. The Handysize segment remains stable, with Owners unable to increase rates despite steady fixing activity, while Charterers continue to seek lower levels.

Handysize (~30,000 DWT) — most fixtures are concluded at last week’s levels. A slight softening of rates is expected over the coming weeks amid increasing vessel supply.

Coaster (~5,000 DWT) — the market has remained steady for the second consecutive week. After a short upward correction, rates have flattened as Charterers continue to secure tonnage at stable levels. Demand for November remains cautious, while growing vessel availability continues to put pressure on rates.

Key observations of the week

Handysize: stable levels on Novorossiysk–Mersin / Alexandria / Morocco / Bangladesh routes; supply pressure keeps rates capped despite fixing activity.
Coaster: rates holding steady; Owners remain flexible on early dates, while Charterers observe cautious demand for November.

Weekly takeaway: The market remains split — Handysize stays firm with a mild downward bias, while Coaster continues to trade within a stable range amid cautious sentiment for November.

Handysize (~30k DWT)

Trade route	Rate (USD/MT)	Trend
POL Novorossiysk → Mersin	20	Down
Novorossiysk → Alexandria	22	Down
Novorossiysk → Morocco	34	Down
Novorossiysk → Bangladesh	50	Even–Down

Coaster (~5k DWT)

Trade route	Rate (USD/MT)	Trend
Rostov / Azov → Marmara	55	Down
Rostov / Azov → Izmir	58	Down
Rostov / Azov → Egypt	79	Down
Rostov / Azov → Algeria	80	Down
Astrakhan → NIP	61	Even