PSSPeak SeasonCarrier-Mandated
Peak Season Surcharge (PSS)
A temporary surcharge imposed during periods of exceptionally high demand — typically before Chinese New Year, in August-September (pre-Christmas), and during supply chain disruptions. Reflects the premium carriers can charge when capacity is tight.
Per Container
Category:Basic Shipping FeeChina Export Local ChargesDestination Import Charges
Applies to:
FCLLCL✕ Air✕ Rail✕ Courier✕ Road✕ FBA✕ As Request
Typical Cost Range
PSS (Bunker Adjustment Factor) is applied on top of ocean freight. Rate varies by carrier, route, and bunker market.
20ft Container
$200–$1000
per 20ft
40ft Container
$400–$2000
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
Set by carrier or port authority — not negotiable.
During peak season, PSS is non-negotiable as demand exceeds supply. Off-peak, it can sometimes be waived for loyal customers.
Adjustment Frequency
MonthlyWeeklyFixed
Current rate reviewed: Ad-hoc / case-by-case
Chargeable Unit
FCL: Per Container
LCL: Per CBM
Formula / Calculation
PSS = Flat Rate Surcharge per Container (set by carrier at time of peak)peakseasonaloceanvolatiledemand
Frequently Asked Questions
When is PSS most commonly applied?
August-November (pre-Christmas/Chinese New Year stocking) and 4-6 weeks before Chinese New Year (factory pre-loading rush).
Is PSS the same as SPS?
Similar but SPS (Special Peak Surcharge) is usually more severe and applied during extreme congestion or crisis periods (e.g., Suez Canal blockage, port strikes).
Related Articles
Cost Management
GRI vs PSS: What's the Difference?
2026-04-154 min read
Negotiation
How to Negotiate Freight Surcharges with Your Forwarder
2026-04-106 min read
Ocean Freight
Currency Adjustment Factor (CAF): The Hidden Cost in Asia-Ocean Routes
2026-03-284 min read
Often Appears Together With
These charges frequently appear on the same freight invoice as PSS:
Quick Search
Have feedback?
Spot a missing surcharge or have a suggestion? Let us know.