FSC-AIRFuel & BunkerCarrier-Mandated

Air Fuel Surcharge (FSC)

A surcharge applied to air freight rates to compensate for fluctuations in jet fuel prices. Like ocean BAF, the air fuel surcharge is a direct pass-through of the airline's largest operating cost variable.

Per Weight
Category:Basic Shipping FeeChina Export Local ChargesDestination Import Charges
Applies to:
FCLLCLAirRailCourierRoadFBAAs Request
Typical Cost Range

Air fuel surcharge — varies with jet fuel prices monthly

$0.15–$1.2
per kg

FSC (Fuel Surcharge) is applied on top of air freight rates. Typically represents 15–30% of the base A/F. Rates reviewed monthly by airlines.

Route Reference Rates (APRIL 2026)

China → US West
$0.15–$0.80/kg
China → US East
$0.20–$0.85/kg
China → Europe
$0.15–$0.70/kg
China → S. America
$0.18–$0.75/kg
China → SE Asia
$0.10–$0.40/kg
China → Australia
$0.12–$0.50/kg

Who Pays?

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

Set by carrier or port authority — not negotiable.

FSC is set by airlines based on IATA fuel price indices. Not negotiable directly, but forwarders may bundle it into all-in rates.

Adjustment Frequency

MonthlyWeeklyFixed

Current rate reviewed: Monthly review

Chargeable Unit

Per KG

Formula / Calculation

FSC = (Jet Fuel Price Index / Base Price Index - 1) x Base Rate Factor
airfueljet fuelvolatile

Frequently Asked Questions

Is FSC included in the quoted air freight rate?
Sometimes. Many forwarders quote all-in rates including FSC. Always confirm what is included.

Often Appears Together With

These charges frequently appear on the same freight invoice as FSC-AIR: