The containership charter market got off to a strong start this year with the Hamburg ConTex posting a gain in its first reading, reported IHS Maritime 360.

The market barometer that tracks period rate levels for tonnage of between 1,100 and 4,250 TEU edged up by two points, or 0.5 percent, driven by a two percent increase in 24-month hire rates for 4,250 TEU baby panamax types.

Demand for panamaxes and postpanamaxes from carriers picked up since mid-December, with various vessels fixing short-period employment at firm levels of US$10,000/day to $10,500/day.

"Panamax activity remains high, with especially CMA CGM being active," a shipbroker said.

The Marseilles-based carrier fixed the 5,100 TEU maxi-Panamax type RHL Fidelitas of Reederei Hamburger Lloyd at a strong $10,600/day for three to four months intra-Asia trading, reported IHS Maritime 360.

It also took the 4,330-TEU Bermuda, which is owned by Hamburg's NSC Holding, at $10,000/day for seven to ten months, also for trading on intra-Asia routes, brokers reported.

Gearless 3,500-TEUers and geared 1,100-TEUers and 1,700-TEU vessels were also rated slightly better in the charter market, according to the ConTex, whereas geared 2,500-TEUers and gearless 2,800-TEU ships were down from December rate offerings.