SPSPeak SeasonCarrier-Mandated
Special Peak Surcharge (SPS)
A more severe form of PSS, applied during extreme peak periods or exceptional supply chain disruptions (port strikes, weather events, geopolitical crises). SPS typically exceeds PSS in magnitude and is announced with shorter notice.
Per Container
Category:Basic Shipping FeeChina Export Local ChargesDestination Import Charges
Applies to:
FCLLCL✕ Air✕ Rail✕ Courier✕ Road✕ FBA✕ As Request
Typical Cost Range
SPS (Bunker Adjustment Factor) is applied on top of ocean freight. Rate varies by carrier, route, and bunker market.
20ft Container
$400–$2000
per 20ft
40ft Container
$800–$4000
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.
SPS is non-negotiable during extreme market conditions. It is typically announced 7-14 days in advance.
Adjustment Frequency
MonthlyWeeklyFixed
Current rate reviewed: Ad-hoc / case-by-case
Chargeable Unit
FCL: Per Container
LCL: Per CBM
Formula / Calculation
SPS = Carrier-Announced High Flat Surcharge per Containerpeakspecialcrisisoceanextreme
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between SPS and PSS?
SPS is typically larger and applied during more severe disruptions. PSS is more regular (seasonal peak). SPS is crisis-specific.
How long does SPS last?
SPS is removed when the triggering event resolves — usually a few weeks to a few months. Unlike PSS, it doesn't have a fixed seasonal pattern.
Often Appears Together With
These charges frequently appear on the same freight invoice as SPS:
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