The top five consolidated container fleets are currently worth USD 33.4 billion and account for 33% of the entire container fleet, according to the latest data provided by VesselsValue.

The report on the top five fleets, including the Moller Maersk AS/Hamburg Süd, China COSCO Holdings Co, CMA CGM/ APL, Hapag-Lloyd/ UASC/ CSAV, MOL/ NYK Line/ K Line, was compiled in light of the recent container carrier consolidation as Danish shipping giant Maersk last week confirmed reports that it will purchase Germany’s container shipping line Hamburg Süd.

Subject to final agreement and regulatory approvals, the acquisition would complement Maersk’s current business as Hamburg Süd holds a strong position in north-south trades.

Maersk is thought to have paid roughly USD 4 billion for Hamburg Süd whose fleet is worth USD 1.5 billion. The deal is expected to complete end 2017. Entry of Hamburg Süd into the 2M alliance will put the alliance into the lead with 15% of global capacity.