Terminal Handling Charge (THC)
A charge levied by the port terminal for handling containers at the port of loading. By default, THC refers to the origin terminal handling charge — the cost of moving containers from the terminal yard to the vessel at the loading port. It covers crane operations, stevedoring, loading/unloading, and administrative handling. This is the standard THC used at major export ports in China.
THC at origin covers container handling from terminal yard to vessel loading. DTHC (Destination THC) covers the same at the destination port and is charged separately to the consignee.
Who Pays?
Negotiable — discuss with your freight forwarder.
THC is largely set by port terminals and port associations. While not directly negotiable, forwarders can sometimes absorb or reduce it through volume commitments at specific ports.
Adjustment Frequency
Current rate reviewed: Per shipment
Chargeable Unit
Formula / Calculation
THC = Base Rate per Container Type + Port Authority Fees + Handling FeesFrequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between THC and ORC?
Who pays THC — shipper or consignee?
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Related Charges
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