ORC freight surcharge: A terminal handling charge applied at the port of origin, identical in function to THC. ORC is the term commonly used in South China ports — particularly Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, and Hong Kong — to describe the charge for receiving containers at the terminal and loading them onto vessels. It covers all container handling operations from yard to ship.. This page explains Origin Receiving Charge as seen in China export freight quotes, shows typical ORC costs ($150-300/per container based on Chinese shipping rates), the calculation formula, and whether overseas importers and freight forwarders can negotiate it away.
ORCExport Local ChargesNegotiable
Origin Receiving Charge (ORC)
A terminal handling charge applied at the port of origin, identical in function to THC. ORC is the term commonly used in South China ports — particularly Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, and Hong Kong — to describe the charge for receiving containers at the terminal and loading them onto vessels. It covers all container handling operations from yard to ship.
Per Container
Category:Basic Shipping FeeChina Export Local ChargesDestination Import Charges
Applies to:
FCLLCL✕ Air✕ Rail✕ Courier✕ Road✕ FBA✕ As Request
Typical Cost Range
$150–$300
per container
ORC is typically slightly higher than THC at other China ports. The difference reflects local port cost structures in the South China region.
Who Pays?
Shipper (When CIF, DAP)
Consignee (When EXW, FOB)
Negotiability
Negotiable — discuss with your freight forwarder.
ORC is set by port terminals in South China. While not directly negotiable, large exporters with regular volumes can sometimes negotiate through forwarders at major South China hubs.
Adjustment Frequency
MonthlyWeeklyFixed
Current rate reviewed: Per shipment
Chargeable Unit
per container
Formula / Calculation
ORC = Port Terminal Base Rate + Origin Handling Fee
portterminalhandlingoriginsouth china
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between ORC and THC?
No functional difference — both are origin terminal handling charges. ORC is simply the term used in South China ports. When you see ORC on a quote, treat it the same as THC.
Why is ORC more common in South China?
Major South China ports (Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Hong Kong) have historically used ORC as their local term. The charge covers the same services as THC at other ports.