RPSPeak SeasonCarrier-Mandated
Rail Peak Season Surcharge (RPS)
A temporary surcharge applied to China-Europe rail freight during periods of exceptionally high demand. RPS spikes when sea freight disruptions divert massive cargo to rail.
Per Container
Category:Basic Shipping FeeChina Export Local ChargesDestination Import Charges
Applies to:
FCLLCL✕ Air✕ Rail✕ Courier✕ Road✕ FBA✕ As Request
Typical Cost Range
RPS (Bunker Adjustment Factor) is applied on top of ocean freight. Rate varies by carrier, route, and bunker market.
20ft Container
$200–$800
per 20ft
40ft Container
$400–$1500
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.
RPS is non-negotiable during capacity crunches. Booking early (3-4 weeks in advance) helps secure rates.
Adjustment Frequency
MonthlyWeeklyFixed
Current rate reviewed: Ad-hoc / case-by-case
Chargeable Unit
FCL: Per Container
LCL: Per CBM
Formula / Calculation
RPS = Rail Operator Announced Surcharge per Container during Peakrailpeak seasoncapacityChina Europe
Frequently Asked Questions
When does rail RPS typically apply?
During Red Sea crisis periods, pre-Chinese New Year, and during European peak import seasons.
Often Appears Together With
These charges frequently appear on the same freight invoice as RPS:
Related Charges
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