Ocean Freight Costs Unpacking Terminal Fees and Hidden Charges

Ocean Freight Costs Unpacking Terminal Fees and Hidden Charges

This article provides an in-depth analysis of terminal handling charges and other hidden costs in international sea freight. It details the composition and influencing factors of various fees, including port charges, port congestion fees, customs clearance fees, and warehousing fees. The aim is to help cargo owners understand the complete picture of sea freight costs, effectively control expenses, avoid unnecessary expenditures, and gain a proactive advantage in international trade. By understanding these fees, shippers can better manage their logistics budget and negotiate favorable terms.

09/26/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Flex Hub Lite Eases Cargo Transit Amid Global Disruptions

Flex Hub Lite Eases Cargo Transit Amid Global Disruptions

Flex Hub Lite offers flexible transshipment storage options, but their use isn't mandatory. Due to exceptional circumstances in European ports, new applications for the European hub are suspended. Storage fees are typically waived for undeliverable goods to Russia and Ukraine, but transfers to nearby ports may occur due to port congestion. Shippers should plan ahead, maintain communication, flexibly select solutions, and monitor policy changes. The service aims to mitigate disruptions caused by port congestion and geopolitical factors, providing alternatives for cargo management and storage.

09/28/2025 Logistics
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Nordic Ports Struggle With Congestion As Asian Freight Surges

Nordic Ports Struggle With Congestion As Asian Freight Surges

In August and September, a large influx of containers from Asia is expected to flood Nordic ports, leading to severe congestion. Strong import demand will continue to drive shipping volume growth, increasing pressure on operational timelines. Ports and shipping companies need to proactively respond and adjust their strategies to mitigate this challenge.

08/06/2025 Logistics
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Transpacific Freight Surge Strains Firms As Tariffs Shift

Transpacific Freight Surge Strains Firms As Tariffs Shift

Recent changes in China-U.S. trade policies have led to a dramatic increase in trans-Pacific freight volume, causing concerns among surveyed small and medium-sized enterprises. Despite a recovery in the market, container shipping rates continue to rise, and foreseeable policy adjustments pose challenges for the future of the shipping market.

05/30/2025 Logistics
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Alibaba Maersk Streamline SME Logistics

Alibaba Maersk Streamline SME Logistics

Alibaba International Station has formed a deep partnership with international shipping giant Maersk to provide small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with simpler, safer, and more transparent international shipping logistics services. Merchants can select logistics solutions online, secure space, and benefit from 24/7 expert online assistance, with an expected overall cost saving of 10%.

02/28/2025 Logistics
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MSC Orders Lngfueled Ships to Strengthen Market Lead

MSC Orders Lngfueled Ships to Strengthen Market Lead

Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has placed another significant order for 10 ultra-large container ships, surpassing its competitors' fleet capacity. This expansion not only solidifies its leading position in the industry but also demonstrates its strategic choice of LNG as a transitional fuel. MSC is rapidly expanding its global shipping footprint, promising a strong future.

11/03/2025 Logistics
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CMA CGM to Impose Peak Season Surcharge on Chinakenya Shipping in 2025

CMA CGM to Impose Peak Season Surcharge on Chinakenya Shipping in 2025

CMA CGM Group announced that starting May 20, 2025, it will implement a peak season surcharge on the China-Kenya route. The surcharge will be $150 per TEU for the central and southern regions, and $200 per TEU for the northern region. This measure is aimed at addressing rising operating costs, prompting shippers to reasonably adjust their logistics costs and transportation plans.

05/16/2025 Logistics
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LA and Long Beach Ports Introduce Night Pass to Reduce Congestion

LA and Long Beach Ports Introduce Night Pass to Reduce Congestion

The Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach will implement the Night Gate program by the end of July. This initiative aims to alleviate port congestion and improve freight efficiency by extending terminal operating hours into the early morning and implementing congestion pricing during peak hours. This encourages cargo companies to utilize off-peak times for loading and unloading. The program has been piloted and is currently undergoing system testing. It is expected to significantly increase port throughput capacity and improve traffic conditions by shifting volume and reducing bottlenecks.

09/26/2025 Logistics
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Ocean Freight and Customs Fees Avoiding Hidden Trade Costs

Ocean Freight and Customs Fees Avoiding Hidden Trade Costs

Although both shipping fees and customs fees are part of international logistics, they differ in nature, collection parties, and calculation methods. Shipping fees mainly pertain to maritime transport costs, while customs fees are related to customs declaration services. Understanding the composition of these fees helps avoid hidden costs and enhances the effectiveness of logistics cost management.

08/05/2025 Customs Knowledge
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US Sanctions Four Chinese Firms for Iran Oil Trade

US Sanctions Four Chinese Firms for Iran Oil Trade

The recent developments in U.S. sanctions against Iran have raised new concerns, as four Chinese shipping companies were added to the sanctions list for alleged illegal oil trading, facing severe penalties that affect the global shipping market. The international community has expressed concerns over America's unilateral sanctions and is calling for dialogue to resolve the issues.

08/04/2025 Logistics
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