About Freight Surcharge Decoder
A free reference tool for overseas freight forwarders, international importers, and buyers who receive shipping quotes from Chinese suppliers.
Our Mission
When you source goods from China under FOB, EXW, CIF, or other incoterms, your freight quote includes dozens of surcharges — BAF, THC, GRI, PSS, CAF, EBS, and many more. These charges can represent 20-40% of your total shipping cost, yet they are often poorly explained or buried in dense freight contracts.
Our mission is simple: make freight surcharge codes transparent and accessible. Each surcharge in our database includes a plain-language explanation, typical cost ranges (based on China export freight rates), how the charge is calculated, and practical guidance on whether and how to negotiate it.
Who This Tool Is For
Overseas Freight Forwarders
Explain charges to your customers with confidence
International Importers
Understand surcharges in your China supplier's quotes
Buyers & Procurement Teams
Factor in accurate shipping costs when sourcing from China
Logistics Students
Learn the real-world freight surcharge structure
What We Cover
Ocean Freight
BAF, THC, PSS, GRI, CAF, EBS
Air Freight
Fuel surcharges, security fees
Rail Freight
China-Europe rail (CR Express)
Express Courier
DHL, FedEx, UPS charges
🏦 Amazon FBA
FBA fees, referral fees, FBM alternatives for China sellers
📋 Customs & Duties
Import duty, VAT, bond fees at destination
Our Approach
Every surcharge entry is researched using publicly available industry data, carrier rate sheets from major Chinese shipping lines and freight forwarders, and logistics best practices. Our cost estimates are based on real China export freight ratesto give overseas buyers an accurate reference point.
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