Skypace Ocean Freight Rate Index

Bookable Ocean Freight: Chicago Rail Ramp to Jebel Ali

35 sailings available over 6 weeks (~6/week) | Last updated: February 15, 2026 (weekly refresh)

Route Summary

Origin
Chicago Rail Ramp, United States
USCHI
Destination
Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates
AEJEA
Transit Time
41-84 days
Carriers
6 carriers
CMA-CGM, Maersk Line, Hapag-Lloyd...
Price Range by Container Type (Ocean Freight)
20GP: $1,588.79 - $3,523.52
40GP: $1,875.79 - $4,425.22
40HC: $1,875.79 - $4,425.22

Market Analytics Summary

Market Low (40HC)
$1,875.79
Ocean Alliance, Gemini Cooperation, Independent, Premier Alliance
Market High (40HC)
$4,425.22
Spread: $2,549.43
Sailings Available
35
~6 per week from 6 carriers

Which Transit Port Offers Best Value?

Analysis based on 35 sailings across 5 routing options:

Transit Port 40HC Price Range Transit Days Carriers
Direct Cheapest $1,875.79 - $4,425.22 0-0 days Maersk Line, Hapag-Lloyd, MSC
Norfolk Fastest $2,694 - $2,888.52 41-61 days CMA-CGM, ONE (Ocean Network Express)
Long Beach $3,746.8 - $3,746.8 63-82 days Yang Ming
Tacoma $3,746.8 - $4,363.52 53-80 days ONE (Ocean Network Express), Yang Ming
Los Angeles $3,746.8 - $4,238.52 55-84 days ONE (Ocean Network Express), Yang Ming

Available Sailings

Vessel Schedule
Predictability
Allocation Routing Transit ETD 20' 40' 40'HC
Ocean Alliance
CMA CGM VERDI
0INLSE1MA
Normal SPOT via Norfolk 61 days Feb 22, 2026 $2,137 $2,794 $2,794
Freight: $2,014 + Origin THC: $780
Ocean Alliance
APL OREGON
0INLUE1MA
Normal SPOT via Norfolk 61 days Feb 26, 2026 $2,037 $2,694 $2,694
Freight: $1,914 + Origin THC: $780
Gemini Cooperation
Vessel Unknown
- SPOT Direct N/A N/A $1,588.79 $1,875.79 $1,875.79
Freight: $1,823 + Dest THC: $52.79
Premier Alliance
HMM NURI
018W
Normal closed via Long Beach 82 days Feb 22, 2026 $3,109.8 $3,746.8 $3,746.8
Freight: $3,704 + Dest THC: $42.8
Premier Alliance
HMM PRIDE
055W
Normal closed via Tacoma 62 days Feb 23, 2026 $3,523.52 $4,363.52 $4,363.52
Freight: $4,325 + Dest THC: $38.52
Premier Alliance
NYK VEGA
085W
Normal closed via Los Angeles 62 days Feb 23, 2026 $3,378.52 $4,238.52 $4,238.52
Freight: $4,200 + Dest THC: $38.52
Premier Alliance
YM UPSURGENCE
077W
Normal 25% via Los Angeles 68 days Feb 25, 2026 $3,109.8 $3,746.8 $3,746.8
Freight: $3,704 + Dest THC: $42.8
Premier Alliance
ONE PREMIUM
089W
Normal 25% via Tacoma 63 days Feb 25, 2026 $3,109.8 $3,746.8 $3,746.8
Freight: $3,704 + Dest THC: $42.8
Premier Alliance
YM WISDOM
025W
Normal 25% via Long Beach 77 days Feb 26, 2026 $3,109.8 $3,746.8 $3,746.8
Freight: $3,704 + Dest THC: $42.8
Premier Alliance
EMERALD TOWER
002W
Normal 25% via Los Angeles 58 days Feb 27, 2026 $3,378.52 $4,238.52 $4,238.52
Freight: $4,200 + Dest THC: $38.52
Premier Alliance
HMM DRIVE
057W
Low (1) 75% via Tacoma 57 days Mar 3, 2026 $3,109.8 $3,746.8 $3,746.8
Freight: $3,704 + Dest THC: $42.8
Premier Alliance
SAN FRANCISCO BRIDGE
084W
Normal 75% via Norfolk 41 days Mar 2, 2026 $2,363.52 $2,888.52 $2,888.52
Freight: $2,850 + Dest THC: $38.52
Premier Alliance
ONE HANGZHOU BAY
061W
Normal 75% via Los Angeles 55 days Mar 2, 2026 $3,378.52 $4,238.52 $4,238.52
Freight: $4,200 + Dest THC: $38.52
Premier Alliance
ONE FORWARD
007W
Normal 75% via Long Beach 63 days Mar 3, 2026 $3,109.8 $3,746.8 $3,746.8
Freight: $3,704 + Dest THC: $42.8
Premier Alliance
YM MASCULINITY
104W
High 85% via Tacoma 61 days Mar 4, 2026 $3,109.8 $3,746.8 $3,746.8
Freight: $3,704 + Dest THC: $42.8
Premier Alliance
ONE MAGDALENA
017W
High 85% via Tacoma 53 days Mar 7, 2026 $3,109.8 $3,746.8 $3,746.8
Freight: $3,704 + Dest THC: $42.8
Premier Alliance
HMM HANBADA
018W
High 85% via Long Beach 65 days Mar 8, 2026 $3,109.8 $3,746.8 $3,746.8
Freight: $3,704 + Dest THC: $42.8
Premier Alliance
HMM DREAM
060W
High 85% via Tacoma 55 days Mar 10, 2026 $3,109.8 $3,746.8 $3,746.8
Freight: $3,704 + Dest THC: $42.8
Premier Alliance
SEATTLE BRIDGE
102W
High 85% via Tacoma 61 days Mar 11, 2026 $3,109.8 $3,746.8 $3,746.8
Freight: $3,704 + Dest THC: $42.8
Premier Alliance
YM UNIFORMITY
082W
High 85% via Los Angeles 66 days Mar 13, 2026 $3,109.8 $3,746.8 $3,746.8
Freight: $3,704 + Dest THC: $42.8
Premier Alliance
HMM RAON
023W
High 95% via Long Beach 64 days Mar 16, 2026 $3,109.8 $3,746.8 $3,746.8
Freight: $3,704 + Dest THC: $42.8
Premier Alliance
YM PLUM
193W
High 95% via Tacoma 61 days Mar 18, 2026 $3,109.8 $3,746.8 $3,746.8
Freight: $3,704 + Dest THC: $42.8
Premier Alliance
YM UPWARD
099W
High 95% via Los Angeles 84 days Mar 20, 2026 $3,109.8 $3,746.8 $3,746.8
Freight: $3,704 + Dest THC: $42.8
Premier Alliance
ONE APUS
022W
High 95% via Tacoma 80 days Mar 24, 2026 $3,109.8 $3,746.8 $3,746.8
Freight: $3,704 + Dest THC: $42.8
Premier Alliance
HYUNDAI FORWARD
168W
High 95% via Tacoma 79 days Mar 25, 2026 $3,109.8 $3,746.8 $3,746.8
Freight: $3,704 + Dest THC: $42.8

Showing 25 of 35 sailings. Enable JavaScript to see all rates and interactive features.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does shipping from Chicago Rail Ramp to Jebel Ali take?

Transit time typically ranges from 41-84 days depending on the carrier and routing. Direct services from Ocean Alliance (CMA CGM, COSCO, Evergreen) and Gemini (Maersk, Hapag-Lloyd) offer the fastest transit. We monitor 4 major carrier groups in real-time to find optimal price/transit combinations.

What is the average cost for a 40'HC on this route?

Current range: $1,823 - $4,325 for a 40'HC (ocean freight only). Prices are updated weekly based on data from 50+ carrier contracts. The price chart above shows 8-week history by alliance group. "Other" includes MSC (independent) and ZIM.

Is the displayed price all-inclusive?

We provide a transparent cost breakdown including: BAF (fuel surcharge), THC (terminal handling), documentation fees. Terminal fees on this route range from $38.52-$938.79 per container for origin and destination combined. Per-shipment fees (B/L, AMS, ISF): approximately $75-150. No hidden surprises.

When is the best time to book for lower rates?

Low season (March-May, November-December): Rates are typically lower than peak season. Peak season (August-October): Pre-holiday inventory rush. Book 3-4 weeks ahead to secure space and lock rates. Check our price history chart - the lowest rates in the past 8 weeks were from Jan 31.

Which carriers serve this route?

Ocean Alliance: CMA CGM, COSCO, OOCL, Evergreen - ~28% market share. Gemini: Maersk + Hapag-Lloyd (formed Feb 2025) - hub-and-spoke model for reliability. Premier Alliance: ONE, HMM, Yang Ming (formed Feb 2025). Independent: MSC (world's largest carrier), ZIM - often competitive on price. Active carriers on this specific route: CMA-CGM, Maersk Line, Hapag-Lloyd, MSC, ONE (Ocean Network Express), Yang Ming.

Which transit port offers the best value?

Chicago Rail Ramp (Cheapest): 40HC $1,823-$3,704, Transit 0-0 days, Carriers: Maersk Line, Hapag-Lloyd. Norfolk (Fastest): 40HC $1,914-$2,850, Transit 41-61 days, Carriers: CMA-CGM, ONE (Ocean Network Express). Long Beach: 40HC $3,704-$3,704, Transit 63-82 days, Carriers: Yang Ming. Tacoma: 40HC $3,704-$4,325, Transit 53-80 days, Carriers: ONE (Ocean Network Express), Yang Ming. Los Angeles: 40HC $3,704-$4,200, Transit 55-84 days, Carriers: ONE (Ocean Network Express), Yang Ming

How fast is my Export Booking confirmed?

Freight rates are bookable online. Skypace is integrated with 10 top carriers for accelerated booking placement between the Client and Carrier. This process is fully and continuously orchestrated by the customer service and logistics department of Maxton Shipping Inc. The Efficiency Difference: Traditional: Booking Request → [QUEUE: Customer Service Rep] → Human Validation → [TIME LOSS] → Request to Carrier. Skypace: Booking Request → [AUTO DETAILS VALIDATION] → Accelerated Request to Carrier. Real-world Example: Bill from Divine Enterprises books a shipment from Port Houston to Port Rotterdam. When he enters shipment data sufficient to place a booking on a specific vessel, the system verifies the necessary information and places the request with the ocean line. Skypace AI and the booking operator track the booking status and coordinate its fate with the Client through all phases. Upon successful confirmation, the Client can issue the Bill of Lading, track the cargo, and manage post-shipment documentation directly from their account dashboard.

How does the Import Port-to-Port booking process work?

Unlike Exports where the client initiates the cargo movement, Imports require validation at origin. Your booking placement does not trigger instantly. First, our operator in the country of origin verifies schedule accuracy and contacts the Exporter to confirm Cargo Readiness. Only then do we proceed with the booking. If the Exporter proposes an alternative date, our export operator returns to you with options for earlier or later sailings, ensuring you have full visibility and control over your import timeline before any commitment is made.

How are Door-to-Door shipments managed?

When a customer books a Door-to-Port or Door-to-Door shipment (Import or Export), we execute a semi-automated validation process. We validate that all address and cargo data is sufficient to place a firm order with the ocean line for a valid sailing date, ensuring no details are missed before execution.

Is full automation available for high-volume shippers?

Yes. Full automation modes are available for clients with accounts on app.skypace.com. This allows local account teams to implement SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) that automate booking allocation across carriers. The platform can notify and integrate suppliers (e.g., OEMs, assembly lines, customs brokers, local truckers) into the workflow, creating a semi-automated process for moving POs/SKUs. This supports both Automated Carrier Selection based on price/transit preferences and Automated Stakeholder Notifications at each shipment milestone.

How do I make a booking with Skypace?

We offer three paths depending on your urgency and preference: Guest Booking (No Account yet): Go to the Quote, select a rate, and click "Book as Guest". Our customer service team will validate your request within 24 hours to create your profile and identify credit terms. Recommended if you are short on time today and your shipment is not departing for at least 7 days. Express Account (For Urgent Cargo): Go to Sign Up first. Our Account Management team will welcome you within 1 business day (often faster) to assign credit terms. Once active, bookings are processed instantly. Recommended if you have an urgent shipment departing soon. Guided Booking (Concierge): Not sure where to start? Go to skypace.com/contact to call, leave a message, or start a Live Chat. Our Logistics Management team will guide you and your colleagues on how to get started, onboard your team, and set up your workflows.

Data & Methodology

Authorized Retailer Guarantee

Rates are sourced from Skypace's carrier contracts and updated weekly. Prices shown are indicative ocean freight rates and do not constitute a binding offer. Final pricing confirmed upon booking.

Cargo Exclusions

Rates apply to standard dry cargo only. Hazardous goods (IMO classes 1-9), refrigerated cargo, out-of-gauge shipments, and commodities requiring special permits may incur additional charges or require separate quotation.

TBA Charges

The following charges are typically invoiced separately: Documentation fees ($35-75), AMS/ISF filing ($25-50 per B/L), Chassis usage at destination, Demurrage & Detention (after free time), Customs clearance, and Inland transportation.

Booking Verification Process

Maxton Shipping Inc. d/b/a Skypace operates as a licensed NVOCC (FMC #030653) and freight forwarder. All shipments are subject to our Terms of Service and the applicable bill of lading terms. Rates are subject to change without notice and subject to space availability.

Skypace Retail Pricing Policy

All freight rates displayed on Skypace are proprietary Retail Offers provided by Maxton Shipping Inc. These rates are inclusive of base freight, applicable surcharges, and Skypace operational fees. While based on direct carrier contracts, these rates constitute independent commercial offers from Skypace and may differ from direct carrier spot rates. Bookings are subject to verification of cargo readiness and vessel space availability.

Rate Scope & Final Calculation

The rates displayed represent the Ocean Freight cost structure (Base Freight + Carrier Surcharges). They exclude variable shipment-level fees, specifically:

  • Handling Charges: Per shipment / Bill of Lading fees.
  • Government & Compliance: Export/Import Customs Clearance, Duties, and Taxes.
  • Accessorials: Charges applicable to Door-to-Door scenarios (e.g., Chassis split, Waiting time, Residential delivery).

Ready to Ship? Book online to accelerate your supply chain — use the "Quote Shipment" feature on this page, visit www.skypace.com, or log in to the official platform at app.skypace.com.