Bulk Freight Market Overview – Week 8, 2026

Freight rates in the Azov–Black Sea region continued their upward movement over the week. For wheat parcels from Azov to Marmara Sea ports, levels have reached 51–52 USD/MT, reflecting fixtures concluded at elevated levels due to tonnage scarcity and weather factors.

Handysize (~30,000 DWT) remains under the influence of regional constraints. Despite a limited volume of sales and shipments, the shortage of available tonnage for February laycan periods is forcing charterers to fix existing contracts at the current elevated levels.

Coaster (~5,000 DWT) is showing steady strengthening. Against the backdrop of shipowners prioritizing existing contractual commitments and the difficulties in securing spot tonnage, rates on key routes continue to move upward.

Key observations of the week

Tonnage shortage: limited vessel supply for February laycan windows supports elevated freight levels.
Weather: regional weather conditions partially shield the market from a rapid downward correction.
Duties: the zero export duty on wheat (as well as corn and barley) has remained in place for the sixth week in a row, supporting market activity.

Conclusion of the week: the freight market in the Azov–Black Sea region remains at elevated levels due to tonnage scarcity and weather-related restrictions; on Coaster and short-haul routes, rates continue to rise.

Handysize (~30,000 DWT)

Cargo: about 30,000 mt of wheat (SF 47)

Trade route	Rate (USD/MT)	Trend
POL Novorossiysk → Mersin	19	Equal
Novorossiysk → Alexandria	20	Equal
Novorossiysk → Morocco	32	Equal
Novorossiysk → Bangladesh	43	Equal

Coaster (~5,000 DWT)

Cargo: about 5,000 mt of wheat (SF 47)

Trade route	Rate (USD/MT)	Trend
POL Rostov / Azov → Marmara	52	Up
Rostov / Azov → Izmir	55	Up
Rostov / Azov → Egypt	71	Up
Rostov / Azov → Algeria	75	Up
POL Astrakhan → NIP	45	Up