Port Charges

Port Charges refer to the collective term for various miscellaneous expenses incurred during the loading, unloading, storage, and transshipment of goods at a port. They typically include Terminal Handling Charges (THC), port security fees, document fees, seal fees, equipment interchange receipt fees, port construction fees, tugboat fees, tally fees, etc. In foreign trade, port charges are usually borne by the shipper (exporter) or consignee (importer) according to trade terms (such as FOB, CIF). For example, under FOB terms, the buyer is responsible for ocean freight and insurance, but the seller must bear the port charges at the port of origin; under CIF terms, the seller must bear the port charges at the port of origin and the ocean freight. Note: Port charges vary by port, shipping company, and cargo type. When quoting, the fee details must be clearly stated to avoid omissions; also, they must be distinguished from ocean freight and inland freight, as port charges only occur at the port stage. Unlike 'wharfage', port charges cover a broader scope, including additional services such as documentation and security. Foreign trade practitioners should specify the party responsible for port charges in the contract and regularly check the bills to prevent unreasonable charges.