All Freight Charges
Complete dictionary of ocean, air, rail, express, FBA, and customs surcharges. 184 charge codes with explanations, formulas, cost estimates, and negotiation guidance.
Ocean Freight (O/F)
The base ocean freight rate — the core cost of moving cargo by sea across a given trade lane. O/F is the foundation of any ocean freight quote. For FCL (Full Container Load), O/F is quoted per container (20ft or 40ft). For LCL (Less than Container Load), O/F is quoted per CBM (cubic meter) as the cargo is consolidated with other shipments. Unlike surcharges, O/F is the actual transportation cost, not an add-on. The base rate fluctuates with market supply and demand.
Air Freight (A/F)
The base air freight rate — the core cost of transporting cargo by air. A/F is quoted per kilogram of chargeable weight (whichever is higher: actual weight or volumetric weight). It represents the airline's charge for carriage and is the foundation of any air freight quote. A/F does not include fuel surcharges, security fees, or handling charges.
Freight Charge (FRT)
FRT is a generic term for the base freight transportation cost — the core charge for moving cargo from origin to destination. It is used across all transport modes (ocean, air, rail, truck) and serves as the foundational line item on any freight quote. FRT does not include surcharges, handling fees, or ancillary charges. In some contexts, FRT is used interchangeably with O/F or A/F.
Bunker Adjustment Factor (BAF)
A surcharge added to compensate for fluctuations in fuel (bunker) prices. Since ocean carriers' largest operating cost is fuel, BAF adjusts freight rates up or down based on oil price movements. It's typically reviewed quarterly or monthly.
Currency Adjustment Factor (CAF)
A surcharge applied to offset currency exchange rate fluctuations between the US Dollar (or another base currency) and the local billing currency. It's expressed as a percentage applied to the base ocean freight rate.
General Rate Increase (GRI)
An announced increase to base ocean freight rates across a given trade lane, typically initiated by carrier alliances. GRI is usually applied on a specific date and affects all cargo on that lane simultaneously. Often used to restore profitability after a soft market.
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.
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.
Destination Terminal Handling Charge (DTHC)
The THC charged at the port of destination (discharge). It covers the same terminal handling services at the destination port. In some regions, particularly West Africa, South America, and parts of Asia, DTHC is a major cost component and a frequent source of billing disputes.
Emergency Bunker Surcharge (EBS)
An emergency or temporary fuel surcharge applied when bunker prices spike unexpectedly beyond what the standard BAF already covers. Unlike regular BAF which is formula-based and announced, EBS is typically imposed suddenly during market crises (e.g., oil supply disruptions, geopolitical events).
Low Sulphur Surcharge (LSS) / IMO 2020 Surcharge
Introduced when IMO 2020 (effective January 1, 2020) mandated that all ocean vessels use fuel with maximum 0.5% sulphur content (down from 3.5%). Carriers had to switch to low-sulphur fuel (VLSFO) or install scrubbers, both significantly increasing fuel costs. LSS compensates for this mandatory compliance cost.
Importer Security Filing (ISF)
A U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requirement mandating that importers (or their agents) file advance cargo information for all shipments entering the United States. ISF must be submitted 24 hours before vessel departure from the foreign port. Failure to file results in significant penalties.
Automated Manifest System (AMS) Fee
A U.S. CBP electronic manifest system for tracking cargo. All ocean carriers and NVOCCs must transmit manifest data electronically before loading. The AMS fee is the carrier's charge for this electronic filing service, passed on to shippers.
Container Freight Station Fee (CFS)
A facility where loose (breakbulk) cargo is consolidated into full containers (CFS consolidation) or where full containers are deconsolidated for delivery. CFS fees cover the cost of handling, tallying, and storing cargo at the freight station. Primarily relevant for LCL (Less than Container Load) shipments.
Carrier Imposed Charge (CIC)
A generic surcharge imposed by carriers to cover rising operational costs that are not captured by standard rate increases or existing surcharges. The naming convention varies — some carriers call it 'Equipment Imbalance Charge', others 'Market Adjustment'. It is essentially a carrier profit/cover charge.
Port Congestion Surcharge (PCS)
Applied when a destination port experiences severe congestion, resulting in extended waiting times for vessels, delayed cargo availability, and increased operational costs for carriers. Ports like Los Angeles/Long Beach (2021), Rotterdam, and Colombo have all seen PCS imposed during peak congestion periods. For LCL shipments, PCS is calculated per CBM of cargo.
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.
Security Charge (SC)
A surcharge to cover the costs of enhanced security measures introduced after 9/11, including ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) code compliance, security personnel, surveillance, and access control at ports and terminals.
Documentation Fee (DOC)
The administrative charge for preparing and processing shipping documentation, including the Bill of Lading (B/L), commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin. Charged by both carriers and freight forwarders.
Container Seal Fee
The charge for high-security container seals (typically C-TPAT/ISO 17712 compliant bolt seals) used to secure containers during transport. Required by customs and carriers for security and liability purposes.
Delivery Order Fee (D/O)
An administrative fee charged at the destination port for issuing the Delivery Order — the document that authorizes the consignee (or their customs broker) to take physical delivery of the cargo from the terminal. Issued by the carrier's local agent.
War Risk Surcharge (WRS)
A surcharge applied to cover the increased cost of insurance and routing adjustments when shipping through areas designated as war risk zones by marine insurance underwriters. Routes through the Red Sea, Persian Gulf, and parts of Eastern Europe have historically triggered WRS.
Fuel Adjustment Factor (FAF)
An alternative term for BAF used primarily by certain carriers (particularly some Asian carriers and some air freight contexts). FAF serves the same function as BAF — compensating for fuel price changes. The naming varies by carrier convention.
Yokohama Assessment Surcharge (YAS)
YAS originated as a surcharge specific to the Port of Yokohama in Japan to cover port facility assessment and improvement costs. It has since been used as a template by other Japanese ports and sometimes as a generic 'port assessment surcharge' by carriers operating in the Japan trade lane.
Destination Delivery Charge (DDC)
In international LCL (Less than Container Load) business, a common destination charge collected by the destination co-loader (consolidation operator). Covers the cost of transporting cargo from the port terminal to the destination warehouse or designated location. Primarily appears in US and Canada trade routes.
Panama Canal Surcharge (PCC)
Applied when routing through the Panama Canal. Covers the Panama Canal Authority's (ACP) transit fees plus operational surcharges. Significant when oil prices affect freshwater levels (affecting ship draft capacity) or during periods of drought (2023-2024 saw severe water restrictions).
Panama Canal Late Arrival Charge (PILAC)
A penalty surcharge imposed by the Panama Canal Authority when a vessel arrives late to its booked transit slot. This disrupts the canal's scheduling and operational efficiency. The charge incentivizes vessels to arrive on time.
Chassis Usage Charge (CUC)
A charge for the use of container chassis (the wheeled frame on which a container is placed for truck/rail transport). In the US, chassis are often provided by chassis pools. CUC covers the cost of maintaining, storing, and managing the chassis fleet.
GRI Asia Pacific (GRI-AP)
A trade-lane specific General Rate Increase announced by major carriers for the Asia-Pacific region. Similar to GRI but geographically scoped. Typically announced for Asia-Europe, Asia-USWC, and Asia-USEC trade lanes. Applied uniformly by all alliance carriers on the same effective date.
Peak Season Surcharge — China to Europe/USA (PSS2)
A second-tier peak season surcharge applied specifically on the China export lanes during extreme demand periods. When regular PSS is already in effect and demand still exceeds capacity, carriers layer PSS2 on top. Common before Chinese New Year and during supply chain crises.
Advance Commercial Information (ACI) — Canada
A Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) requirement similar to the US ISF. All ocean cargo destined for Canada must have advance electronic commercial information submitted before loading at the foreign port. ACI must be filed 24 hours before vessel arrival at the first Canadian port.
Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) — EU
A EU customs requirement (aligned with ICS2 — Import Control System 2) mandating advance cargo declaration for all goods entering the EU. ENS must be submitted electronically before goods arrive at the first EU port of entry. Replaced the older ENS/CHIEF system.
Freight All Kinds (FAK) Rate
FAK is not a surcharge but a rate classification where a single freight rate applies regardless of commodity type. Often used in container shipping where carriers offer FAK rates that apply the same charge to any cargo in a container, simplifying pricing. FAK rates are common in annual service contracts.
Handling Charge (HLC)
A standard operational fee charged by Chinese freight forwarders to cover basic services such as booking space, document processing, and cargo handling. This is a customary industry practice in China export shipping — a conventional charge that shippers encounter in freight quotes from Chinese forwarders. Similar to HLA (Handling Agent) at destination.
Destination Handling Charge (DHC)
A standard operational fee charged by the destination freight forwarder or handling agent to cover basic services such as cargo receipt, customs clearance assistance, document processing, and delivery coordination. Corresponds to HLC (Handling Charge) at origin. Similar to HLA (Handling Agent) fee at destination.
Port Base Linkage (PBL) / Base Port Surcharge
A surcharge applied when the port of loading or discharge is a base port (primary hub) with higher operational costs. Used by some carriers to differentiate pricing between base ports and outport/satellite terminals. Helps carriers manage volume distribution across terminals.
Lloyd's Registration / Certificate Fee
A fee charged for issuing certificates or documentation related to Lloyd's Register vessel classification, including certificates required for specific cargo types (e.g., IMO tankers, chemical carriers, refrigerated vessels) or for Lloyd's-approved shipping documents.
Demurrage Charge
A charge applied when a full import container remains at the port terminal beyond the allocated free time. Demurrage incentivizes timely cargo clearance and container retrieval to keep port terminals clear. The consignee is responsible once cargo is discharged.
Detention Charge
A charge applied when a container (full or empty) is retained by the shipper or consignee beyond the agreed free time for return to the carrier's depot. Detention differs from demurrage — demurrage is for terminal storage, detention is for equipment held off-terminal.
Priority Rate Surcharge (PRS)
A premium surcharge applied when shippers request priority vessel booking or space assurance on a specific vessel/class. PRS gives guaranteed slot allocation at a higher rate, ensuring space during peak periods when standard bookings may be rolled.
Low Fluctuation Provision (LFP)
An alternative BAF structure offered by some carriers where the BAF surcharge is capped or stabilized within a narrow band, in exchange for a slightly higher base rate or a fixed LFP fee. Popular with shippers who want rate predictability.
Full Container Load Administrative Surcharge
An administrative surcharge sometimes applied by carriers or NVOCCs to cover the additional documentation, tracking, and coordination costs associated with FCL shipments. More commonly absorbed into the base FCL rate rather than charged separately.
Original Bill of Lading Fee
A fee charged for the issuance and courier delivery of the Original Bill of Lading (OBL) — the traditional negotiable shipping document. In an era of increasing digital B/L adoption, OBL fees cover the paper, administrative processing, and courier costs.
Sea Waybill Fee
A non-negotiable transport document used instead of a Bill of Lading for shipments where the consignee does not need to transfer title during transit. Sea Waybills eliminate the need for physical document surrender, reducing costs and transit delays.
Special Waiver Certificate Fee
An administrative fee for processing regulatory waivers or exemptions, such as waivers from import licensing requirements, quarantine regulations, or pre-clearance inspections. More common in regulated import markets like Australia, New Zealand, and certain Asian countries.
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.
Air Freight Surcharge (AFS)
The base air freight rate surcharge applied by airlines to compensate for operating costs, capacity management, and market conditions on specific trade lanes. AFS is the air equivalent of ocean BAF.
Air Fuel Surcharge (FSC)
A surcharge applied to air freight rates to compensate for fluctuations in jet fuel prices. Like ocean BAF, the air fuel surcharge is a direct pass-through of the airline's largest operating cost variable.
Air Waybill Charge (AWC)
An administrative fee charged by airlines or freight forwarders for preparing and processing the Air Waybill (AWB) - the official contract of carriage for air cargo.
Cargo/Carrier Charge Adjustment (CCA)
A fee charged when changes need to be made to the Air Waybill after it has been issued. Common scenarios include correcting the consignee name, updating the destination address, changing the notify party, or adjusting cargo details (weight, pieces, description). Also known as Amendment fee in some contexts.
Container Internal Transfer / Interchange Fee (IT)
Charged when a container is transferred between different depots, terminals, or carrier equipment pools. In LCL consolidation, IT covers the cost of moving a container from the carrier's container yard to the consolidation freight station, or between multiple depots during the cargo movement process. Also called Equipment Interchange Receipt (EIR) fee in some regions.
Forwarder's Service Charge (FWD)
FWD is a generic term for the freight forwarder's service charge — the cost for professional logistics services including booking carrier space, documentation handling, cargo tracking, customs coordination, and overall shipment management. Used across all transport modes (ocean, air, rail, truck), FWD represents the forwarder's professional service fee, separate from the actual transportation cost (O/F, A/F).
Road Toll Fee / Highway Toll Charge (TOLL)
Charged to cover the cost of tolls on highways and expressways used during truck transportation of containers from origin warehouses to ports, or from destination ports to final delivery addresses. Toll fees are pass-through charges levied by highway operators.
Truck Waiting Time / Detention Fee (WAIT)
Charged when a truck or container is held waiting beyond the agreed free waiting time. Common scenarios: driver waiting at the factory for cargo to be ready, waiting at the port for gate entry, waiting at the consignee's warehouse for unloading space. Each additional hour beyond the free time triggers a waiting fee.
X-Ray Security Charge (XRC)
A charge applied to cover the cost of mandatory X-ray security screening of air cargo at airports. Required by aviation security authorities for all air cargo before loading.
Aviation Security Surcharge / Air Security Charge (ASQC)
A government-mandated surcharge to fund aviation security infrastructure and operations at airports. Applied to all air cargo as a pass-through of airport security authority charges.
Air Capacity Surcharge (CA)
A surcharge applied by airlines during periods of tight air cargo capacity. Common pre-Chinese New Year, pre-Christmas, and when geopolitical events reduce passenger belly capacity.
Residential Delivery Surcharge (RES)
Applied by express carriers (DHL, FedEx, UPS) when delivering to a residential address. Residential deliveries require additional attempts and driver time, increasing per-delivery cost.
Oversize Surcharge (OS)
Applied when package dimensions exceed standard size limits. Oversize packages require special handling and dedicated vehicles.
Overweight Surcharge (OWS)
Applied when a single package exceeds standard weight limits (typically 30kg/70lbs for standard express). Heavy packages require special equipment and team lifts.
Remote Area Surcharge - Express (RAC)
Applied when the pickup or delivery address is in a remote or less-accessible area. Remote areas have limited carrier network coverage, requiring longer transit times and additional feeder transport.
Automated Export System / Air Export Filing Fee (AES)
An electronic filing fee required by US CBP for air cargo exports. Exporters must file electronic manifest data through AES before cargo departs the US.
China Railway Export Surcharge (CRX)
A surcharge applied by China Railway or CR Express operators to cover costs specific to the China-Europe Railway Express service - terminal handling at border crossings, locomotive usage, and track fees.
Rail Cross-Border Freight Fee (CFF)
Fees charged by various national railway operators along the China-Europe rail route for using their rail infrastructure. Each national rail operator charges for track access.
Railway Customs Clearance Fee (CRR)
Administrative fees charged by customs authorities at railway border crossings for processing import/export declarations and issuing customs clearance documents for rail freight.
Rail General Rate Increase (GRI-RAIL)
A rate increase announced by China Railway or railway consortium operators on China-Europe rail routes. Rail GRI is typically announced annually and reflects operational cost increases.
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.
FBA Fulfillment Fee by Size and Weight Tier
Amazon's core fee for picking, packing, and shipping FBA inventory to customers. Charged per unit sold and varies by product size tier and weight. The single largest FBA cost component.
FBA Monthly Inventory Storage Fee
Amazon charges FBA sellers a monthly fee for storing inventory in fulfillment centers. Charged per cubic foot per month. Rates are higher from October to December.
FBA Long-Term Storage Surcharge
An additional surcharge for inventory in FBA warehouses for more than 365 days. Amazon imposes this to encourage inventory turnover.
FBA Label Service / Prep Service Fee
Charged when sellers request Amazon to apply FNSKU barcodes or perform product preparation (polybagging, bubble wrapping). Amazon charges per unit for each prep service.
FBA Customer Returns Processing Fee
Charged when a customer returns an FBA item. Amazon inspects, processes, and returns the item to inventory or disposes of it.
FBA Inventory Disposal / Removal Fee
Charged when a seller requests Amazon to dispose of or remove unsold, damaged, or returned FBA inventory.
FBA Referral Fee (Amazon Commission)
Amazon's commission charged on every item sold through the Amazon marketplace. A percentage of the sale price, varying by product category. Amazon's primary revenue from third-party sellers.
FBA Inbound Shipping to Amazon
The cost of shipping inventory from the seller's supplier to Amazon's fulfillment centers. For Chinese sellers, this covers international freight, customs clearance, and domestic delivery to Amazon.
FBA Unlisted Item / Unclassified Inventory Surcharge
Applied when inventory arrives at Amazon but cannot be properly classified or matched to an existing FBA listing. Unlisted items require manual Amazon seller support processing.
Import Customs Duty (Duty / Tariff)
A government-imposed tax on imported goods, calculated as a percentage of the customs value (CIF = Cost + Insurance + Freight). Rates vary by product HS code and country of origin.
Anti-Dumping Duty (ADD)
A special additional import duty imposed when foreign goods are exported at below their normal market value. Common on Chinese steel, solar panels, furniture, and certain textiles.
Import Value Added Tax (VAT)
A consumption tax levied on the import of goods, calculated on the customs value plus applicable import duties. Collected by customs at the point of import.
China Export VAT Refund / Rebate
A Chinese government policy allowing exporters to claim back the VAT paid on exported goods and inputs. Rebate rates vary by product HS code from 0% to 17%.
Safeguard Measure / Special Safeguard Duty
A temporary import duty imposed when a surge of imports causes or threatens serious injury to domestic industry. Unlike anti-dumping duties, safeguard measures target surges in import volume.
Customs Service / Clearance Fee
The professional fee charged by customs brokers for handling import/export customs procedures. Covers document preparation, declaration filing, duty payment, and communication with customs authorities.
U.S. Customs Bond / Import Bond
A financial guarantee (surety bond) required by US CBP for all commercial imports valued over $800. The bond guarantees payment of all applicable duties, taxes, and penalties.
Certificate of Origin Issuance Fee
A fee charged for issuing the Certificate of Origin (CO) - a document certifying that goods were manufactured in a specific country. Required by customs to determine applicable duty rates under FTAs.
Form E - China-ASEAN FTA Certificate of Origin
The official Certificate of Origin form under the China-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement (ACFTA). Enables preferential tariff treatment when goods meet rules of origin criteria.
RCEP Certificate of Origin
The Certificate of Origin form under the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) - covering China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and all 10 ASEAN nations. Creates the first FTA link between China and Japan/Korea.
Wood Packaging Materials (WPM) Fumigation Certificate Fee
A fee for the inspection and fumigation treatment of wood packaging materials (pallets, crates, dunnage). ISPM 15 is an international standard requiring all wood packaging to be heat-treated or fumigated before international shipping.
CIQ / Commodity Inspection Quarantine Fee (China Export)
Fees charged by China's Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau (CIQ/AQSIQ) for inspecting and certifying export goods. Required for food products, cosmetics, toys, electronics, and goods subject to export licensing.
Phytosanitary Certificate Fee
An official government certificate issued by AQSIQ certifying that plant-based products have been inspected and are free from harmful pests and diseases. Required for agricultural products, plants, seeds, and wood products.
Bank Fee / Telegraphic Transfer (TT) Charge
Bank charges for international wire transfers (TT) used to pay suppliers, freight forwarders, and other parties. Faced with SWIFT fees, intermediary bank charges, and currency conversion spreads.
China Compulsory Certification (CCC) Fee
The China Compulsory Certification (CCC) mark is mandatory for products imported, sold, or used in China. Foreign manufacturers must obtain CCC certification through CNCA before importing certain product categories.
Shipper's Export Declaration (SED) - Electronic Export Information
A US export declaration requirement (now called EEI in AES) for shipments from the US valued over $2,500 or requiring an export license.
Import Processing Fee (General)
A general administrative fee charged by customs authorities or freight forwarders for processing import documentation and customs procedures. Widely used in Southeast Asia, Middle East, Africa, and Latin America.
Warehouse Receiving / Inbound Handling Fee
Charged by warehouses or logistics centers for receiving, unloading, and checking incoming freight. Covers dock labor, yard allocation, and initial cargo inspection upon arrival.
Warehouse Handling / Processing Fee
Fees for warehouse operations such as picking, packing, put-away, binning, and internal movement of goods. Covers the labor cost of physically processing cargo within the warehouse.
Warehouse Storage / Warehousing Charge
Charges for keeping cargo in a warehouse over time. Usually calculated per cubic meter (CBM), per pallet position, or per square foot per day/month. Free storage periods are sometimes offered.
Container Deconsolidation / Unstuffing / Destuffing Fee
The labor cost of removing and sorting cargo from a full container (FCL or LCL). Also called unstuffing or destuffing. Charged per container or per CBM of cargo removed.
Cargo Consolidation Service Fee
Charged by freight forwarders or NVOCC operators for combining multiple shippers' cargo into a single container. Includes warehouse sorting, labeling, and container loading services.
Product Labelling / Labeling Service Fee
Charged for applying product labels, stickers, or tags to merchandise before shipping. Includes label printing, quality checking, and re-labelling of incorrectly labeled goods.
Product Tagging / Price Tagging Service Fee
Charged for attaching price tags, security tags, hang tags, or RFID tags to products. Common for retail apparel, footwear, and department store merchandise.
Palletization / Palletizing / Loading onto Pallet Fee
Charged for arranging and securing cargo onto pallets, wrapping with stretch film, and applying pallet labels. Required for ocean freight cargo, Amazon FBA shipments, and any cargo moved by forklift.
Cargo Sorting / Grading / Quality Inspection Fee
Charged for sorting mixed cargo by SKU, grade, size, color, or destination. Includes quality inspection (checking for defects, broken packaging, or incorrect items) before outbound dispatch.
Repacking / Re-boxing / Relabeling to Retail Pack Fee
Charged when goods arrive in bulk or factory packaging and need to be repacked into retail-ready packaging, gift boxes, or smaller units. Includes supply of new boxes, packing materials, and labor.
Ex-Bond / Bonded Warehouse Storage & Handling Charge
Charged when cargo stored in a bonded warehouse is withdrawn (ex-bond) for domestic consumption or re-export. Covers the warehouse operator's fee for de-bonding procedures and release of cargo.
Container Yard / Container Yard Charge
Charged by container terminal operators for container handling and storage within the container yard. Covers crane lifting, stacking, and yard management of containers.
Pacific Trade Peak Season Surcharge (PTF)
A trade-lane-specific peak season surcharge applied on the Trans-Pacific route (Asia to US West Coast). Activated during high-demand periods such as pre-Chinese New Year factory rush and pre-Christmas stocking.
Security Charge / Port Security Surcharge (SCS)
A surcharge applied by shipping lines or terminals to cover the cost of enhanced port and vessel security measures, including ISPS compliance, security personnel, and screening equipment.
Handling Agent / Agency Surcharge
A fee charged by shipping agents for handling documentation, cargo coordination, and communication between shippers, carriers, and port authorities. Applied when cargo requires an intermediate agent at either origin or destination.
International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code Surcharge
A surcharge to recover costs associated with compliance with the IMO's International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. Covers security plans, crew training, and port facility security measures.
Telex Release / Electronic Release / Surrender Fee
A fee charged when the original Bill of Lading is electronically surrendered (telex release) instead of being returned physically to the carrier. Allows cargo release without the original B/L paper document.
Container Devanning / Unloading / Stripping Fee
Charged for the labor of removing (unloading/stripping) cargo from a container at the destination warehouse or CFS. Covers dock labor, forklift operation, and cargo sorting upon unloading.
Waterproof Tarpaulin / Protective Covering Charge
Charged when cargo requires additional waterproof covering using tarpaulins, plastic wrap, or protective covers during ocean transport. Applied to open-top containers, flat-rack containers, or cargo susceptible to moisture damage.
EDI / Electronic Document Transmission Fee
Charged by carriers or ports for the electronic transmission of shipping data through EDI systems (e.g., ENS, AMS, customs declarations). Covers system integration, data validation, and compliance message processing.
Co-Loader / Co-Loading Service Charge
A fee charged by co-loaders (cargo consolidators who sub-contract space from main carriers) for arranging and managing LCL consolidation or FCL space purchases from multiple NVOCCs or carriers.
Feeder / Feeder Vessel Surcharge
A surcharge for transporting containers via feeder vessels between a main hub port and smaller regional ports not served directly by mainline ocean carriers. Common for cargo to/from secondary ports in Southeast Asia, India, Africa, and Latin America.
China Import Service Fee (CISF)
China Import Service Fee (CISF) is a charge collected by the destination Co-Loader (consolidation agent) for handling LCL cargo at the destination port. Covers customs clearance, devanning (unloading), warehousing, and documentation processing at the destination.
Truck Weighing / Truck Scale / Weight Certificate Fee
Charged when a loaded container or truck must be weighed at an official weighbridge or truck scale to obtain a verified weight certificate. Required for compliance with SOLAS VGM regulations and road weight limits.
Overnight / After-Hours / Weekend / Holiday Trucking Surcharge
A surcharge applied when trucking services are required outside normal working hours - at night, on weekends, or during public holidays. Reflects higher labor costs for drivers and terminal staff during off-peak hours.
Trucking Appointment / Container Booking / Slot Reservation Fee
A fee charged for reserving a specific appointment time slot at a port terminal, warehouse, or rail ramp for truck pickup or delivery. Required at most major ports and distribution centers to manage gate traffic.
Trucking No-Show / Missed Appointment / Cancellation Fee
Charged when a confirmed trucking appointment is missed or cancelled without sufficient notice. Covers the cost of the reserved time slot, driver standby, and administrative processing.
Pre-Pull / Pre-Staging / Early Trucking Appointment Charge
Charged when a truck pulls (picks up) a container from the port terminal days before the cargo is needed for loading or export. The container is pre-staged at the forwarder's yard to avoid port congestion and missed vessel windows.
Trucking Delivery / Last Mile / Door-to-Door Delivery Charge
The base charge for trucking transportation of containers or cargo from a port, warehouse, or rail terminal to the final destination (factory, warehouse, distribution center, or retail location).
Trucking Pickup / Container Pickup from Port or Depot
Charged for trucking a container from a shipping line's container depot or empty container yard to the shipper's factory or warehouse for loading. Covers the empty repositioning leg before export loading.
Trucking Miscellaneous / Accessorial Charges (Liftgate, Residential, Limited Access)
Additional trucking charges for non-standard delivery situations: liftgate service (no dock), residential delivery, limited access sites (schools, construction sites, military bases), and oversize/overweight permits.
Container Chassis Usage / Supply Charge (USA)
A charge in the USA for the use of a container chassis - the wheeled frame that holds a container during road transport. Chassis are supplied by chassis pools (common, exclusive) or shipping lines.
Clean Truck Program / Clean Truck Surcharge (LA/LB, USA)
A surcharge at Los Angeles and Long Beach ports (San Pedro Bay) imposed under the Clean Truck Program to replace older diesel trucks with cleaner, compliant vehicles. Funds the environmental upgrade of port trucking fleets.
ISF Bond / Importer Security Filing (10+2) Surety Bond
A specific customs bond type required in the USA to cover ISF (Importer Security Filing) penalties. The ISF bond guarantees payment of any penalties assessed for late, inaccurate, or missing ISF filings.
Single Entry Customs Bond (SEB)
A one-time customs bond purchased for a single import shipment when a continuous annual bond is not held. Covers import duty, taxes, and penalties for that specific entry only.
Messenger / Courier / On-Demand Delivery Fee
A fee charged for on-demand document or sample delivery by courier or messenger, typically for the urgent physical delivery of original shipping documents (B/L, certificates, or customs paperwork) to customs brokers or banks.
T1 Document / External Transit Declaration (EU External Trade)
A European Union customs transit document (T1) required when non-EU goods move through the EU without paying import duty - typically from a EU port of entry to an inland customs office or final destination. Guarantees duty payment through a customs transit regime.
Letter of Undertaking (LUT) / Bond for Export Obligations
A legal undertaking submitted by Indian exporters to claim GST (Goods and Services Tax) exemption on export goods. The LUT is a bank/financial guarantee that the exporter will fulfill their export obligations.
Border Cross / Border Surcharge / Cross-Border Surcharge
A surcharge applied when cargo crosses an international border by road, covering the additional administrative, customs, and handling costs of cross-border transit. Common in Europe (EU-non-EU borders), Central America, and Asia.
Escort / Pilot Car / Police Escort Fee
Charged when cargo requires an escort vehicle (pilot car) for safe road transport - mandatory for oversize, overweight, or hazardous cargo on regulated routes. Includes police escort fees on certain highways.
Air Freight Terminal / Warehouse Handling Charge
Charged by the air cargo terminal operator at the airport for receiving, handling, storing, and releasing air cargo. Similar to THC (Terminal Handling Charge) in ocean freight but applied at airport cargo terminals.
Airline Handling / Airline Cargo Operations Fee
A fee charged by airlines for cargo handling services at the departure and arrival airports. Covers loading/unloading, build-up/breakdown of ULDs (Unit Load Devices), and cargo documentation processing.
Air Freight Remote Area / Out-of-Gauge Surcharge
A surcharge applied when cargo is destined to or from remote airports, island destinations, or regions with limited air cargo infrastructure. Also called Remote Area Delivery (RAD) or OOG surcharge for air freight.
Express / Courier Remote Area Surcharge
A surcharge applied by express carriers (DHL, FedEx, UPS, TNT) when delivering to or from remote areas outside standard delivery networks. Includes island destinations, rural areas, and Post Office boxes.
Express Address Change / Address Correction / Re-direction Fee
Charged by express carriers when the delivery address on a package is incorrect, incomplete, or needs to be changed after the package has been shipped. Covers re-routing, re-labeling, and re-scanning costs.
Express Overlength / Oversize Package Surcharge
A surcharge applied by express carriers when a package exceeds the standard maximum dimensions (length + girth limits). Each carrier has specific overlength and oversize thresholds that trigger additional charges.
Shipping Document / Booking Amendment Fee
Charged when a confirmed booking, Bill of Lading, or shipping instruction needs to be changed after submission. Covers administrative costs of revising carrier bookings, reissuing documents, and re-filing customs data.
Shipping Space Booking / Booking Confirmation Fee
A fee charged by carriers or freight forwarders for the administrative work of reserving container space on a vessel or aircraft. Some carriers charge a flat booking fee; others incorporate this into the freight rate.
Sea Waybill (SWB) / Express Bill of Lading
A Sea Waybill is a non-negotiable shipping document that serves as a receipt and contract of carriage. Unlike a traditional B/L, a SWB does not constitute a document of title and cannot be surrendered to release cargo - cargo is released to the named consignee automatically.
AMS / AES Electronic Manifest Filing Fee
A fee charged for filing cargo manifest data with US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) through the Automated Manifest System (AMS) or AES. Required 24 hours before vessel departure for all ocean cargo to the USA.
EU ENS / Entry Summary Declaration Filing Fee
A fee for filing the Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) with EU customs authorities via the New Computerized Transit System (NCTS) before cargo arrives at an EU port. Required for all goods entering the EU.
Cargo Manifest / House Manifest / Master Manifest Fee
Charged for the preparation and issuance of the cargo manifest - the detailed list of all goods carried on a vessel or aircraft. Includes house manifest (shipper's cargo), master manifest (carrier's complete cargo list), and customs manifest.
Document Courier / Express Document Delivery Fee
Charged for the physical delivery of original shipping documents (B/L, certificates, letters of credit documents) via courier service. Applied when documents must be delivered to banks, agents, or consignees before cargo arrival.
Cargo Insurance / Marine Insurance Documentation and Administration Fee
Charged by freight forwarders or insurance brokers for arranging marine cargo insurance, issuing insurance certificates or policies, and handling cargo insurance claims. The actual insurance premium is separate from this admin fee.
Export License / Third-Party Declaration Fee
A service fee charged by freight forwarders or customs brokers when providing export documentation support, particularly in China. This typically covers the cost of using a third-party trading company's export license or customs declaration for shipments where the original supplier lacks proper export documentation, import/export rights, or cannot claim tax rebates. The fee compensates for administrative work, compliance risk, and the use of the export entity's documentation.
Form A - Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) Certificate of Origin
A preferential Certificate of Origin used under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program, which allows developing country exports to enter developed markets at reduced or zero import duty. Issued by government authorities or chambers of commerce.
Form P - Certificate of Origin for Preferential Tariff (APTA)
A preferential Certificate of Origin used under the Asia-Pacific Trade Agreement (APTA). Covers trade between Bangladesh, China, India, Lao PDR, Korea, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam with preferential tariff treatment.
Form F - China-Chile Free Trade Agreement Certificate of Origin
A preferential Certificate of Origin for the China-Chile Free Trade Agreement (CCFTA). Enables Chinese goods to enter Chile at preferential duty rates, often 0% for many manufactured products.
Form X - Origin Declaration for Self-Certified Origin
An origin declaration (Form X) used under certain free trade agreements that allow exporters to self-certify the origin of their goods without a government-issued certificate. Used in Australia, New Zealand, and some ASEAN FTAs.
Form N - Certificate of Origin for Australia-New Zealand Economic Relationship
A Certificate of Origin used under the Australia-New Zealand Closer Economic Relations Trade Agreement (CERFTA/ANZCERTA) for trade between Australia and New Zealand. Most goods trade duty-free between the two countries.
Form R - SAARC Preferential Trade Agreement (SAPTA) Certificate
A Certificate of Origin under the SAARC Agreement on Preferential Trade (SAPTA), used for preferential trade between SAARC member states (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Maldives, Afghanistan).
Form L - Latin American Certificate of Origin (ALADI)
A Certificate of Origin used under the Latin American Integration Association (ALADI) preferential trade framework. Covers preferential trade between Latin American countries with varying levels of economic development.
Form S - Movement Certificate for Pan-Euro-Mediterranean (PEM) Zone
A Movement Certificate (Form S) used under the Pan-Euro-Mediterranean (PEM) preferential system, covering cumulation of origin between EU, EFTA, Turkey, and Mediterranean countries. Enables diagonal cumulation of origin across multiple FTAs.
Form I - China-Iceland / China-Switzerland FTA Certificate of Origin
A Certificate of Origin for the China-Iceland FTA or China-Switzerland FTA. These smaller-volume FTAs cover preferential trade between China and Iceland or Switzerland/Liechtenstein.
Form H - China-Hong Kong CEPA Certificate of Origin
A Certificate of Origin under the Mainland China-Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA). Hong Kong-origin goods entering mainland China enjoy preferential treatment under CEPA.
Form M - Certificate of Origin for COMESA (Eastern & Southern Africa)
A Certificate of Origin under the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA). Used for preferential trade between 21 African member states including Egypt, Kenya, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Ethiopia.
Cost, Insurance and Freight (CIF) Value Calculation Note
CIF (Cost, Insurance and Freight) is an Incoterm where the seller pays costs, insurance, and freight to deliver goods to the destination port. The insurance element is mandatory and typically 110% of the CIF value at a rate of 0.3-1.0%.
Marine / Cargo Insurance Premium Rate
The premium rate for marine cargo insurance covering loss or damage during sea or air transport. Rates vary by cargo type, voyage route, packaging quality, and claim history.
Customs Physical Inspection / Container Examination Fee
Charged by customs authorities when a shipment is selected for physical inspection, x-ray scanning, or full examination. Covers the cost of customs officer labor, inspection facilities, and equipment usage.
Customs Clearance Handling / Customs Brokerage Service Fee
A professional service fee charged by licensed customs brokers for managing import or export customs procedures. Covers document preparation, HS code classification, duty calculation, and customs authority liaison.
Port Surcharge / Port Additional / Port Dues Surcharge
A surcharge applied at specific ports to cover additional port authority costs such as infrastructure upgrades, environmental compliance, security enhancements, or local port development fees. Applied on top of standard port dues.
Port Miscellaneous Charges (PMC)
A miscellaneous port charge covering various administrative fees, port service charges, and handling fees not itemized separately. Commonly used by Chinese freight forwarders instead of 'Port Surcharge' (PSD) to group minor port-related costs into a single line item. PMC may include port authority fees, security scanning, documentation handling, and berthing charges.
LCL (Less than Container Load) Ocean Freight Charge
LCL (Less than Container Load) is a shipping service for cargo volumes that don't fill a full container. Multiple shippers' cargo is consolidated into one shared container, with each shipper paying based on their volume (CBM).
FCL (Full Container Load) Ocean Freight Charge
FCL (Full Container Load) is a shipping service where one shipper books an entire container exclusively. The shipper loads and unloads their own cargo at origin and destination. FCL is typically cheaper per unit than LCL for volumes above 15-20 CBM.
Container Freight Station (CFS) Handling and Deconsolidation Charge
Charged at a Container Freight Station for the handling and consolidation or deconsolidation of LCL cargo. CFS stations are used by NVOCCs and freight forwarders to break down or build up groupage shipments.
Verified Gross Mass (VGM) Filing Fee
A mandatory IMO SOLAS regulation requiring the verified gross mass (actual weight) of packed containers to be submitted before vessel loading. Exporters or packers are responsible for obtaining and reporting VGM. The fee covers weighing services or submission administration.
Telex / Sea Waybill Release Fee
A fee charged when the original Bill of Lading (B/L) is surrendered electronically rather than physically. Telex Release eliminates the need to courier original documents to the destination, speeding up cargo release. Also called Surrender Fee or Release Fee.
Export Customs Declaration / Customs Clearance Fee
A fee charged by customs brokers or freight forwarders for processing export customs declarations at the origin country. This covers the preparation and submission of export documentation required by customs authorities (e.g., China's GZS or export declaration via the customs pre-registration system).
Import Customs Clearance Fee
A fee charged by customs brokers for processing import customs declarations at the destination country. This covers the broker's service in preparing and filing entry documentation, paying duties and taxes on behalf of the importer, and ensuring CBP or other authority release of the cargo.
Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) / Tariff Processing Fee
A U.S. Customs processing fee assessed on all imports. The Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) is a percentage-based ad valorem charge applied to the dutiable value of imported goods. It is separate from import duty and customs clearance fees.
Importer Security Filing Bond
A customs bond is a surety guarantee required by U.S. CBP for most commercial import shipments. An ISF Bond specifically covers the financial risk of ISF non-compliance penalties ($5,000-$10,000 per violation). Importers without a continuous bond must purchase a single-entry bond for each ISF filing.
Single Entry Customs Bond
A one-time customs bond purchased to cover a single import shipment. Unlike a continuous bond which covers all imports for a year, a single entry bond is valid for one entry only. It is required when importing without an annual continuous bond and covers ISF penalties, duty shortfalls, and other CBP liabilities.
Clean Truck Fund Charge (Drayage Optimization Fee)
A surcharge imposed at major U.S. ports (e.g., Port of Los Angeles/Long Beach) to fund clean truck programs that replace older, polluting drayage trucks with cleaner alternatives. The charge is collected from importers/consignees as part of their drayage invoice and passed to the port authority.
Trucker Appointment / Pre-Pull Fee
A fee charged by trucking companies when a container is pulled from the terminal before the scheduled appointment or delivery date — often called 'pre-pull' or 'appointment fee'. Some ports require appointments for container pickup; if the truck arrives without one or pulls early, an extra fee applies.
Trucking Drayage / Inland Delivery Charge
The charge for transporting a container by truck from the port or rail terminal to the consignee's warehouse or delivery address. Drayage covers the short-haul move between the port and an inland location (often called 'last-mile' delivery in freight pricing).
Container Handling Charge / Terminal Handling Charge (Port-Specific)
A port or terminal-specific charge for the handling of containers within the terminal — including lifting containers on and off trucks, trains, and vessels, as well as terminal yard operations. CHC is similar to THC but applied at specific ports or rail intermodal ramps where THC does not apply, or charged as a supplement.
Equipment Interchange Receipt / EIR Processing Fee
An Equipment Interchange Receipt (EIR) is a legal document recording the physical condition of a container at the time it is picked up or returned at a terminal or depot. The EIR fee covers the inspection, documentation, and administrative processing of this interchange record — verifying container condition, recording damages, and issuing the receipt.
Container Pickup / Empty Container Depot Collection Fee
A charge for picking up an empty container from a carrier depot or container yard (CY) and transporting it to the shipper's warehouse or CFS for loading. This fee applies when the shipper needs to stuff the container at their own facility rather than delivering cargo to the port terminal.
Magnetic Inspection Fee for Air Cargo
A mandatory safety inspection fee charged for air cargo containing magnetic materials or items that may interfere with aircraft navigational instruments. Products such as electronics (speakers, motors, transformers, magnets), audio equipment, and certain medical devices generate magnetic fields and require testing before air transport. The inspection ensures the cargo meets IATA dangerous goods regulations for magnetic materials and will not disrupt aircraft compass or navigation systems. This fee applies only to air freight; ocean freight does not require magnetic inspection.
Airport Handling / Terminal Infrastructure Fee
A fee charged at airport cargo terminals for the use of terminal facilities, handling equipment, and infrastructure during air cargo processing. Also called Airport Terminal Charge (ATC) or Air Terminal Handling. Applies to all air cargo shipments departing from or transiting through commercial airports.
Product Test Report / Inspection Certificate Fee
A fee charged for obtaining a product test report, inspection certificate, or quality certification required by the destination country's import regulations. Many countries (especially for food, electronics, toys, cosmetics, and regulated goods) require pre-shipment testing by accredited laboratories. The fee covers sampling, laboratory testing, and certificate issuance.