The Journal of Commerce Breakbulk Shipper Index tracked down again in May to 97, a drop of 26 points since March and two points lower than April.
The volume of high-tech goods from Asia to North America increased 70% year over year while US imports of e-commerce declined, according to aviation consultancy Aevean.
Encouraged by the stickiness of early June rate hikes, carriers are capitalizing on robust demand as an early start to peak season keeps ships full on North Europe and Mediterranean trades.
Empty containers trapped on the wrong side of the Strait of Hormuz are impacting export markets, forcing ocean carriers to seek out lessors for more equipment.