The World Shipping Council (WSC) reported that 1,478 containers were lost at sea in 2025 out of 280 million transported globally, which equals 0.0005 percent of the total.

This figure represents an increase from 576 containers lost in 2024 and is above the recent three-year average. Notably, one major vessel loss accounted for 640 containers, or 43 percent of the total. Key factors contributing to these losses included adverse weather conditions in the North Atlantic and North Pacific, as well as fire-related incidents.

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

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

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

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