The World Shipping Council said 1,478 containers were lost at sea in 2025 out of 280 million transported globally, equal to 0.0005 per cent of the total, reported WCS.

The figure is up from 576 in 2024 and above the recent three-year average. One major vessel loss accounted for 640 containers, or 43 per cent of the total. Weather in the North Atlantic and North Pacific and fire-related incidents were cited as key factors.

The report noted 128 containers were recovered in 2025, the highest since recovery data collection began in 2023.

From January 2026, new mandatory reporting rules under the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea require all containers lost or observed drifting to be reported. Flag states must also submit loss figures to the International Maritime Organization.

WSC highlighted ongoing safety initiatives including its Cargo Safety Program to prevent misdeclared dangerous goods, a revised CTU Code, the Top Tier Joint Industry Project and new IMDG Code rules for charcoal shipments.

The survey is based on input from member companies representing about 90 per cent of global container vessel capacity, with data extrapolated to estimate industry-wide losses. WSC said it will continue publishing the report to ensure consistency and transparency.