BKGDocumentationNegotiable

Shipping Space Booking / Booking Confirmation Fee

A fee charged by carriers or freight forwarders for the administrative work of reserving container space on a vessel or aircraft. Some carriers charge a flat booking fee; others incorporate this into the freight rate.

Per Shipment
Category:Basic Shipping FeeChina Export Local ChargesDestination Import Charges
Applies to:
FCLLCLAirRailCourierRoadFBAAs Request
Typical Cost Range
$20$150
flat rate

Ocean FCL booking fee: $20-$80 per booking. Air freight booking fee: $30-$100. NVOCC booking: $25-$100.

Who Pays?

Shipper (When CIF, DAP)
Consignee (When EXW, FOB)
Negotiability

Negotiable — discuss with your freight forwarder.

Booking fees are often waived for large-volume shippers or bundled into the base freight rate. Negotiate at the start of the contract.

Adjustment Frequency

MonthlyWeeklyFixed

Current rate reviewed: Per booking

Chargeable Unit

Flat Rate

Formula / Calculation

BKG = Carrier Booking Fee per Booking or Flat Rate Included in Freight
bookingspace bookingcontainer bookingvessel booking

Frequently Asked Questions

Are booking fees refundable if I cancel?
Cancellation before booking cutoff: usually free. After booking cutoff: cancellation fee applies (typically equal to the booking fee or higher).