LFPFuel & BunkerNegotiable

Low Fluctuation Provision (LFP)

An alternative BAF structure offered by some carriers where the BAF surcharge is capped or stabilized within a narrow band, in exchange for a slightly higher base rate or a fixed LFP fee. Popular with shippers who want rate predictability.

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

LFP (Bunker Adjustment Factor) is applied on top of ocean freight. Rate varies by carrier, route, and bunker market.

20ft Container
$30$100
per 20ft
40ft Container
$60$200
per 40ft
Route Reference Rates(April 2026)
China → US West
$150–$600
China → US East
$200–$800
China → Europe
$120–$500
China → SE Asia
$50–$200
China → Oceania
$100–$400
China → S. America
$150–$600

Who Pays?

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

Negotiable — discuss with your freight forwarder.

LFP is a negotiated contract element. Available to large volume shippers with annual contracts. Small shippers typically cannot access LFP.

Adjustment Frequency

MonthlyWeeklyFixed

Current rate reviewed: Contract-based

Chargeable Unit

FCL: Per Container
LCL: Per CBM

Formula / Calculation

LFP = Fixed Premium per Container + Capped BAF Adjustment Band
fuelcontractpredictabilityBAF alternative

Frequently Asked Questions

Is LFP worth paying the premium?
For large-volume importers with tight budget cycles, yes. The predictability outweighs the LFP cost when BAF spikes. For small shippers, the base rate premium may exceed BAF savings.

Often Appears Together With

These charges frequently appear on the same freight invoice as LFP: