Glossary Sea Ocean Shipping

All importer are bound to incoterms (pre-arranged, 7 days before leaving foreign port. Fyi: to calculate weight distribution of vessel, carrier manifest and etc.

Issuer of Bill of Lading (BL) = (export freight forwarder / eff) is pre-arranger (incoterms) of shipment, movement from foreign port to USA CFS warehouse / port.
Issuer of arrival notice Invoice = (import freight forwarder / IFF) is overseer of shipment, movement to your USA CFS warehouse / seaport / airport.
To understand why/what/who importer must pay, before/after/during shipping, importer/buyer must know incoterms (international commercial terms).
Incoterms published by international chamber of commerce (ICC) and recognized by united nations commission on international trade law as global common terms.
If you don't know your own incoterms, contact issuer of Bill of Lading (ie: Bill of Sale ) manufacturers contract agreement (your supplier/factory/shipper/shipping-co)
If you don't know your own incoterms, contact issuer of Bill of Lading (ie: Bill of Sale ) manufacturers contract agreement (your supplier/factory/shipper/shipping-co)

Why can't supplier / factory / shipper / shipping-company arrange us domestic trucking, ISF filing and customs entry.

Most of foreign supplier / shipper (issuer of Bill of Lading ) vary limited contact with domestic trucker and US customs laws/regulation and customs broker
Your supplier in business of MFG and your shipping-company in business of shipping, they are not in business of knowing US customs rule and regulations, we are.

Note:

To arrange sea shipping, arranger must be your supplier and /or licenses by FMC.Gov ( NVOCC / OFF / OTI) = issuer of Bill of Lading / LCL arrival notice / full arrival notice.
To arrange air shipping, arranger must be your supplier and /or licenses by international air transport association ( IATA ) = issuer of Bill of Lading / air-way-bill ( AWB )
To arrange domestic trucking, arranger must be licenses by FMCSA (mc# / dot#) / must have "filer-code" from US customs = issuer of pick-up- Bill of Lading .
To file ISF and customs entry (customs agent / customs broker), filer must have "filer-code" from US customs = issuer of customs release documents.

Customs broker:

Customs broker = messenger between US customs and importer: to summited importer info/doc's, way it was received from you and your-vendors to US customs.
Customs broker = is not a messenger between you and your-vendors (factory/ supplier/ forwarders/ warehouse/ shipping-company/ cet-exam-site, us agencies and etc. )
Check incoterms (international shipping abbreviations)

To track shipments:

Tracking Sea shipment and type in your mbl# (Tracking by Master Bill of Lading Number).
Tracking Air shipment and type in your AWB # (Tracking by Airway Bill Number).

Shipping Terms

FCL

FCL ( full container load / full carload ) - ISO standard container loaded and unloaded at shipper and consignee risk. It signifies the entire container is for one recipient. FCL container shipping costs less than bulk goods of the same weight. FCL is intended to denote a container loaded to its maximum weight or volume, although FCL in ocean freight does not always mean a full payload or capacity. Many companies choose to keep full container as a single container load to simplify logistics and boost security compared to sharing a container with other items.

LCL

A shipment known as a less than container load (LCL) cannot fit into a typical freight container. The term "less than (railway) car load" (LCL) used to refer to the efficient transportation of small amounts of commodities from various shippers or for delivery to several locations. On the journey to the final destination, LCL freight was frequently sorted and redistributed into different railroad cars at intermediate railway terminals.

Track it

Air shipment tracker below and type in your AWB #.

Track by AWB

Some import have asked, why I'm I paying warehouse, arrival notice, shipping, duty/tax and etc?

Maybe this will help you to understand domestic (retail) vs international b2b (wholesaler): for example: in domestic, let's say you bought the rock for $10 (in retail-cost). Most of $10 is including your sellers cost of doing business with cost of rock. Such fees, may included, their cost of warehouse, handling, stocking, security, liability insurance, packing, labeling, import tax-id that they paid, shipping cost from their vendor, employment taxes ( SSN , medicare, futa, suta, worker's comp, disability, unemployment insurance, etc. ) + other cost of doing business and invoicing you.

But, for international business / b2b, all the fees are broken-down by each wholesaler vendor. For each importation there are about: 10 party involved with 9 vendors payment or more: (1. You/importer) (2. Your factory/supplier) (3. Issuer of Bill of Lading / shipper/ loader to vessel/aka: your foreign forwarder/trucking and etc. ) (4. Cargo insurance/maritime law /all risk / total lost / certificate of liability insurance) (5. Isf filing / sea only) (6. Customs entry / customs-released) (7. Issuer of arrival notice (an) LCL = overseer of bl, as it was instructed) /arrival notice (an) full container = overseer of Bill of Lading ) (8. Cfs warehouse fees / LCL /freight-released / turnover) (9. US customs exam) (10. Domestic truck arrangement or pick-up your shipment yourself) (11. Etc)

Shipping Terms Incoterms

Below incoterm = pre-arranged. If you paid your shipper/supplier/factory for shipping cost, 99% are CIF / CNF (incoterms), meaning you still need to pay for arrival notice, warehouse / port. All cargo are pre-arranged before leaving foreign port, to warehouse / port / issuer-of-(an) ( AWB )/etc, except filing ISF , entry, bonds and domestic trucking (99%)

Normally on sea LCL international shipping: as importer, there are 10 party involved with 9 vendor payments: before any shipment arrangement, you should negotiate your shipping terms with your supplier/factory and shipping company.

You/importer/consignee.
Your factory/supplier payments. (part of issuer of Bill of Lading )
Your foreign freight forwarder payment. (part of issuer of Bill of Lading )
Your cargo insurance/all risk/total lost). (part of issuer of Bill of Lading )
Your sf filing agent (sea shipment only). (customs broker)
Your customs clearing agent payment. (customs broker)
Your us freight agent / freight forwarder / carrier payment. (issuer of arrival notice)
Your exam US customs exam site, and US government agencies.
Your CFS warehouse payment/ LCL sea shipment. (warehouse)
Domestic trucking arrange payment or pick-up your shipment yourself.

Note: 2, 3 and 4 is issuer of Bill of Lading . 7 and 9 is arrange by issuer of Bill of Lading 5 and 6 is arrange by customs broker. 8 US government

Normally on sea full container international shipping: as importer, there are 10 party involved with 9 vendor payments: before any shipment arrangement, you should negotiate your shipping terms with your supplier/factory and shipping company.

You/importer.
Your factory/supplier payments.
Your foreign freight forwarder payment.
Your cargo insurance/all risk/total lost).
Your ISF filing agent (sea shipment only).
Your customs clearing agent payment,
Your us freight agent / freight forwarder / carrier payment,
Your exam US customs exam site. And US government agencies.
Your sea terminal port payment/full container,
Domestic trucking arrange payment or pick-up your shipment yourself.

Normally on air international shipping: as importer, there are 9 party involved with 8 payments: before any shipment arrangement, you should negotiate your shipping terms with your supplier/factory and shipping company.

You/importer.
Your factory/supplier payments.
Your foreign freight forwarder payment.
Your cargo insurance/all risk/total lost).
Your customs clearing agent payment,
Your us freight agent / freight forwarder / carrier payment
Your exam US customs exam site. And US government agencies.
Your airport terminal port payment,
Domestic trucking arrange payment or pick-up your shipment yourself.

International Shipping Abbreviations

Incoterms:
International commercial terms (incoterms) are a series of international sales with terms, published by international chamber of commerce (ICC) and widely used in international commercial transactions. These are accepted by governments, legal authorities and practitioners worldwide for the interpretation of most commonly used terms in international trade. They are intended to reduce uncertainties arising from different interpretation of such terms in different countries. The scope of which are limited to matters relating to rights and obligations of the parties to the contract of sale with respect to the delivery of goods sold. They are used to divide transaction costs and responsibilities between buyer and seller and reflect state-of-the-art transportation practices.

The incoterms® rules are an internationally recognized standard and are used worldwide in international and domestic contracts for the sale of goods. First published in 1936, incoterms® rules provide internationally accepted definitions and rules of interpretation for most common commercial terms. The rules have been developed and maintained by experts and practitioners brought together by ICC and have become the standard in international business rules setting. Launched in mid-September 2010, incoterms® 2010 came into effect on 1 January 2011. They help traders avoid costly misunderstandings by clarifying the tasks, costs and risks involved in the delivery of goods from sellers to buyers. Incoterms® rules are recognized by united nations commission on international trade law (uncitral) as the global standard for the interpretation of the most common terms in foreign trade.

If insurance is not included in the term (for example, cfr=cnf) then insurance for transport is the responsibility of the buyer/importer or the seller/supplier/factory depending on who owns the cargo at time of transport. In the case of CFR=CNF terms, it would be the buyer while in the case of CIF or CIF terms, it would be the seller LCL ( loose cargo/container load(s) / less-than-container load / not full container ) / / FCL ( full container load / full carload / full cargo load)

Exw – ex works (named place) the seller makes the goods available at his premises. The buyer is responsible for all charges. This trade term places the greatest responsibility on the buyer and minimum obligations on the seller. The ex works term is often used when making an initial quotation for the sale of goods without any costs included.

Exw means that a seller has the goods ready for collection at his premises (works, factory, warehouse, plant) on the date agreed upon. The buyer pays all transportation costs and also bears the risks for bringing the goods to their final destination

(EXW is not to be used for any shipment within EAMER or into/out of EAMER, with no exceptions. FCA is the preferred Incoterms® rule in this case)

FCA – free carrier (named places) the seller hands over the goods, cleared for export, into the custody of the first carrier (named by the buyer) at the named place. This term is suitable for all modes of transport, including carriage by air, rail, road, and containerized / multi-modal sea transport. This is the correct "freight collect" term to use for sea shipments in containers, whether LCL (less than container load) or FCL (full container load).

Fas – free alongside ship (named loading port) the seller must place the goods alongside the ship at the named port. The seller must clear the goods for export. Suitable only for maritime transport only but not for multimodal sea transport in containers (see incoterms 2010, ICC publication 715). This term is typically used for heavy-lift or bulk cargo.

FOB – Free on board (named loading port) The seller must themself load the goods on board the ship nominated by the buyer, cost and risk being divided at ship's
rail. The seller must clear the goods for export. Maritime transport only but NOT for multimodal sea transport in containers (see Incoterms 2010, ICC publication
715). The buyer must instruct the seller the details of the vessel and port where the goods are to be loaded, and there is no reference to, or provision for, the use of a
carrier or forwarder. It does not include Air transport. This term has been greatly misused over the last three decades ever since Incoterms 1980 explained that FCA
should be used for container shipments.

CFR or CNF – Cost and Freight (named destination port) Seller must pay the costs and freight to bring the goods to the port of destination. However, risk is
transferred to the buyer once the goods have crossed the ship's rail. Maritime transport only and Insurance for the goods is NOT included. Insurance is at the Cost of
the Buyer.

CIF – Cost, Insurance and Freight (named destination port) Exactly the same as CFR except that the seller must in addition procure and pay for insurance for the
buyer. Maritime transport only.

CPT – Carriage Paid To (named place of destination) The general/containerised/multimodal equivalent of CFR. The seller pays for carriage to the named point of
destination, but risk passes when the goods are handed over to the first carrier.

CIP – Carriage and Insurance Paid (To) (named place of destination) The containerised transport/multimodal equivalent of CIF. Seller pays for carriage and
insurance to the named destination point, but risk passes when the goods are handed over to the first carrier.

CFR or CNF – Cost and Freight (named destination port) Seller must pay the costs and freight to bring the goods to the port of destination. However, risk is
transferred to the buyer once the goods have crossed the ship's rail. Maritime transport only and Insurance for the goods is NOT included. Insurance is at the Cost of
the Buyer.

CIF – Cost, Insurance and Freight (named destination port) Exactly the same as CFR except that the seller must in addition procure and pay for insurance for the
buyer. Maritime transport only.

DAF – Delivered At Frontier (Deliveplace) This term can be used when the goods are transported by rail and road. The seller pays for transportation to the named
place of delivery at the frontier. The buyer arranges for customs clearance and pays for transportation from the frontier to his factory. The passing of risk occurs at the
frontier.

DES – Delivered Ex Ship (named port) Where goods are delivered ex ship, the passing of risk does not occur until the ship has arrived at the named port of
destination and the goods made available for unloading to the buyer. The seller pays the same freight and insurance costs as he would under a CIF arrangement.
Unlike CFR and CIF terms, the seller has agreed to bear not just cost, but also Risk and Title up to the arrival of the vessel at the named port. Costs for unloading
the goods and any duties, taxes, etc… are for the Buyer. A commonly used term in shipping bulk commodities, such as coal, grain, dry chemicals - - - and where the
seller either owns or has chartered, their own vessel.

DEQ – Delivered Ex Quay (named port) This is similar to DES, but the passing of risk does not occur until the goods have been unloaded at the port of destination.
(DAT replaces DEQ.)

DDU – Delivered Duty Unpaid (named destination place) This term means that the seller delivers the goods to the buyer to the named place of destination in the
contract of sale. The goods are not cleared for import or unloaded from any form of transport at the place of destination. The buyer is responsible for the costs and
risks for the unloading, duty and any subsequent delivery beyond the place of destination. However, if the buyer wishes the seller to bear cost and risks associated
with the import clearance, duty, unloading and subsequent delivery beyond the place of destination, then this all needs to be explicitly agreed upon in the contract of
sale.

DAP - Delivered At Place (named destination place) This term means that the seller delivers when the goods are placed at the disposal of the buyer on the arriving
means of transport ready for unloading at the named place of destination. This is exactly what the old Incoterm DDU stipulated. (DAP replaces DDU, DES, DAF.)

DDP – Delivered Duty Paid (named destination place) This term means that the seller pays for all transportation costs and bears all risk until the goods have been
delivered and pays the duty. Also used interchangeably with the term "Free Domicile". The most comprehensive term for the buyer. In most of the importing
countries, taxes such as (but not limited to) VAT and excises should not be considered prepaid being handled as a "refundable" tax. Therefore VAT and excises
usually are not representing a direct cost for the importer since they will be recovered against the sales on the local (domestic) market.
(DDP is not to be used for any shipment into/out of the EU or other non-EU Customs administrative area. DAP is the preferred Incoterms® rule in this case. For any
shipment within the EU or other non-EU Customs administrative area, DDP is acceptable.)

New arrival incoterms have been discussed in the Incoterms 2010 brought out by the ICC and DAT and DAP have replaced DAF,DES,DEQ and DDU Given here is
a small explanation provided by the ICC Two new Incoterms rules – DAT and DAP – have replaced the Incoterms 2000 rules DAF, DES, DEQ and DDU

The number of Incoterms® rules has been reduced from 13 to 11. This has been achieved by substituting two new rules that may be used irrespective of the agreed
mode of transport – DAT, Delivered at Terminal, and DAP, Delivered at Place – for the Incoterms® 2000 rules DAF, DES, DEQ and DDU.

Under both new rules, delivery occurs at a named destination: in DAT, at the buyer’s disposal unloaded from the arriving vehicle (as under the former DEQ rule); in
DAP, likewise at the buyer’s disposal, but ready for unloading (as under the former DAF, DES and DDU rules).

The new rules make the Incoterms® 2000 rules DES and DEQ superfluous. The named terminal in DAT may well be in a port, and DAT can therefore safely be used
in cases where the Incoterms® 2000 rule DEQ once was. Likewise, the arriving “vehicle” under DAP may well be a ship and the named place of destination may
well be a port: consequently, DAP can safely be used in cases where the Incoterms® 2000 rule DES once was. These new rules, like their predecessors, are
“delivered”, with the seller bearing all the costs (other than those related to import clearance, where applicable) and risks involved in bringing the goods to the
named place of destination

A cubic meter is something 1 meter long by 1 meter wide by 1 meter high
(or 3.28 feet long by 3.28 feet wide by 3.28 feet high) ( 1m * 1m * 1m = 1 CUBIC METER)
3.28ft * 3.28ft * 3.28ft = 35 CUBIC FEET = 1 CUBIC METER

Technically cubic meter could be any combination of lengths as long as all three dimensions multiplied together equals 1.
0.5m * 0.5m * 4m = 1 CUBIC METER
5ft * 7ft * 1ft = 35 CUBIC FEET = 1 CUBIC METER

1 cubic meter = 35.314667 cubic feet
1 meter = 3.28084 foot (rounded)
(1m x 1m x 1m) = 1 m3 = (3.28084ft x 3.28084ft x 3.28084ft) = 35.3147 ft3 (rounded)

Shipping of 20 boxes sizes of 18”x14”x12” is equal to shipping 1.42 CUBIC METERS (20x1.50’x1.67’x1’ = 50.1 cubic feet = 1.42 CUBIC METERS)

Shipping Boxes for International Shipping

Shipping of 6 boxes sizes of 18”x18”x22” is equal to shipping 0.7 CUBIC METER** (6x1.50’x1.50’x1.83’ = 24.7 cubic feet = 0.7 CUBIC METERS)

One metric meter = aprx. 3.28 metric feet ONE CUBIC METER = aprx. 35 CUBIC FEET

Cubic Meter in FCL (Full Container Load in Ocean Freight)

As a rule international ocean freight rates with FCL - Full Container Load in the international ocean freight industry are based on type on ocean freight containers, but on weight or volume shipped goods. In respect of the cubic meter shipper should be aware of CUBIC CAPACITIES AND PAYLOADS of multimodal sea freight containers to be shipped from or to the USA.

Here are cubic capacities and payloads for mostly common used intermodal ocean freight containers:

20' STANDARD SEA FREIGHT CONTAINER = Cubic Capacity: 33.0 cbm (1,165 cubic ft) = Payload* :22,100 kg (48,721 lbs)
40' STANDARD SEA FREIGHT CONTAINER = Cubic Capacity: 67.3 cbm (2,377 cubic ft) = Payload*: 27,397 kg (60,401 lbs)
40' HIGH CUBE SEA FREIGHT CONTAINER = Cubic Capacity: 76.0 cbm (2,684 cubic ft) = Payload*: 29,600 kg (65,256 lbs)

*Payload weight exceeds over-the-road legal limits in US and Canada. Recommended maximum payload for the US and Canada
20 ft container: 10 pallets (avg) / 34,000 lbs
40 ft container: 20 pallets (avg) / 44,000 lbs

*Over the road weight restrictions vary state to state so please confirm prior to loading.
*Each shipment is unique and depends on product weight, size and whether it is palletized or floor loaded.

W/M = Weight or Measurement in respect of ocean freight and inland transportation (LTL)

W/M is the acronym for Weight or Measurement commonly used in international and domestic cargo transportation industries. It means which ever is higher. W/M presents cargo density limit. I.e. light cargo is charged based on measure, while heavy cargo based on weight. W/M may differ among carriers.

International shippers should be aware of CHARGEABLE WEIGHT AND CHARGEABLE VOLUME (WM) definitions used in different modes of cargo transportation. In respect of international ocean freight and domestic inland freight modes the meanings of WM are:

INTERNATIONAL OCEAN FREIGHT MODE OF TRANSPORTATION: Since international shipping companies' vessel capacity is not really limited by weight of cargo but by the hold of the ship, then charges for regular ocean freight shipments are based on the total cargo volume. In general for ocean freight shipments, the weight of the cargo is not a pricing factor.

However there is a cargo density limit if WM ocean freight rates are present. It varies depending on international ocean freight carriers, origins and destinations, etc. Regular international ocean freight shipments most likely will not exceed the density limit. In general exporters and importers have to be aware of the ocean freight "U.S. 45 lbs rule", 45 lbs = 1 cubic foot. This means that if density of international ocean freight exceeds 45 lbs per one cubic foot, then chargeable volume (total shipping cost) on the ocean freight will be calculated using this formula:

Total Weight of ocean freight (in pounds) divided by 45 lbs = Chargeable Volume in cubic feet. The limit of 1 cubic meter = 750 kilos can be used as well. However depending on ocean freight carrier, origin and destination etc, it may vary: 1 cbm = 500 kilos; 1 cbm = 1000 kilos etc. The exporter or imported involved in an international ocean freight shipment should be advised about WM by the international ocean freight carrier when making a booking.

THE U.S. DOMESTIC INLAND MODE OF TRANSPORTATION (Pickup or Line-haul charges): WM for Inland Trucking is more heavily restricted then in the international ocean freight mode of transportation and subject to actual or dimensional weight verification. In the USA chargeable weight for inland freight trucking should be calculated using this formula:

Chargeable Weight in Pounds = Actual Weight of the freight OR (Length x Width x Height in inches) divided by 194, whichever is greater.

If WM rules apply then it should be indicated in our documents for each international ocean freight shipment.

Cubic Meter in RO-RO (Roll On/Roll Off)

International ocean freight rates with international shipping companies that provide Ro-Ro service are based on cubic meter or cubic foot and type of vehicle. Than bigger vehicle then higher the ocean freight rate and total shipping cost.

Total international Ro-Ro ocean freight rate will be calculated as a total volume of your vehicle shipped from the USA in cubic meters or cubic feet multiplied to the ocean freight rate per cubic meter or cubic foot.

Exemptions can be rates for shipping cars from US using Ro-Ro service. It can be a lump sum per vehicle depending on its size. For example: Cars up to 600 cubic feet of total volume and up to 1.6 meters high - $1,300 lump sum + BAF & CAF etc. However, that "lump sum" ocean freight rate is initially based on range of volume in cubic meters or cubic feet as well.

International Organization for Standardization ( “ISO” Containers ).
An intermodal container or freight container (commonly known as: shipping container or box) is a reusable transport and storage unit for moving products between locations or countries; the terms container or box may be used on their own within the context of shipping. Containers manufactured to ISO specifications may be referred to as ISO containers and the term high-cube container is used for units that are taller than normal.

Measurement
There are two common standard lengths used to ship wine, spirits and other select beverages, 20 ft and 40 ft standard containers. Container capacity is often expressed in twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU, or sometimes teu). An equivalent unit is a measure of containerized cargo capacity equal to one standard 20 ft (length) × 8 ft (width) container. As this is an approximate measure, the height of the box is not considered; for example, the 9 ft 6 in (2.9 m) high cube and the 4-foot-3-inch (1.3 m) half height 20-foot (6.1 m) containers are also called one TEU. Similarly, 45 ft (13.72 m) containers are also commonly designated as two TEU’s, although they are 45 and not 40 feet (12.19 m) long. Two TEU’s are equivalent to one forty-foot equivalent unit (FEU).

Weight (Max Payload)
The maximum gross mass for a 20 ft (6.1 m) dry cargo container is 24,000 kg, and for a 40-ft (including the 2.87 m (9 ft 6 in) high cube container), it is 30,480 kg. Allowing for the tare mass of the container, the maximum payload mass is therefore reduced to approximately 22,000 kg for 20 ft (6.1 m), and 27,000 kg for 40 ft (12 m) containers.

*Over the road weight restrictions vary state to state so please confirm prior to loading.

Loading Cases
20 ft container: 10 pallets (avg) / 34,000 lbs
40 ft container: 20 pallets (avg) / 44,000 lbs

Each shipment is unique and depends on product weight, size and whether it is palletized or floor loaded.

Shipping Terms Abbreviation PDF | All Shipping Terms PDF

3pl (3rd party logistics): a third party, who takes care of the logistics value chain.
BAF (bunker adjustment factor): a kind of fuel surcharge added to the freight rates.
Barge (a kind of small ship): flat bottomed cargo carrying boat. It is used for movement of small quantity cargo. Mainly used for coastal or river movements.
BL (bill of lading): BL is issued by the carrier (shipping line/ NVOCC ). This is the document which is presented to the shipping line at pod, and then only cargo can be cleared.
Break bulk (break bulk cargo): the cargo which can be counted (other than containers). It includes steel coils, vehicles etc.
Bulk cargo (bulk cargo): the cargo like coal, limestone etc. These are loaded in the hatches of the ships with the help of cranes having grabs.
CAF(currency adjustment factor): a kind of surcharge added to freight rates, to mitigate the currency risk.
Can (cargo arrival notice): a document issued by carrier/agent to the importer, notifying him about the arrival of cargo.
CBU (completely built unit): vehicles being shipped in fully built form.
CFS(container freight station): CFS is a kind of customs bound warehouse, where stuffing and destuffing of containers are done. These are near to the ports.
CKD(completely knocked down): vehicles being shipped in parts. One vehicle is knocked down in many small small parts and these parts are shipped in containers.
COC (carrier owned container): the containers owned by the carriers.
Cy (container yards): these are general purpose yards, where generally empty containers are stacked.
DBL (draft bill of lading): the b/l issued by the carrier to freight forwarder. This is just to check the actual format of the b/l as per LC. Master b/l is issued on the basis of DBL and after MBL is issued, this remains null and void.
Dc (dangerous cargo): cargos like petroleum, chemical etc. Special equipment are required to handle these.
Demurrage (demurrage): the penalty paid by the charterer to the owner of the ship for delay in completing the voyage.
Dispatch (dispatch): the money paid by the owner of the ship to the charterer for completing the voyage in advance. Generally the rate will be half of demurrage rate.
Do (delivery order): a document issued by carrier/agent to the importer, giving him the authority to collect the cargo. This is issued after b/l is surrendered to the carrier/agent.
EGM (export general manifest): a document issued by carrier/agent to the port authorities stating that a container is going for export.
FAK (freight of all kind): freight charged by linear operators. Quoted in terms of per teu.
FCL (full container load): when one container contains cargo for only one consignee.
Feeder (feeder service): a kind of shipping service in which ships ply between a distant port and some port having linear service. For ex- service between Haldia and Colombo. In this case Haldia is a distant port whereas many linear routes pass through Colombo.
Feu (forty feet equivalent unit): a container of 40' length. One feu is equal to 2 teu.
Fr (flat rack): a kind of container which has just the bottom, like a rack. Generally used for oversized cargo. Freight is more.
Freight (freight): money charged by shipping lines to take the cargo from one port to another.
HBL (house bill of lading): the b/l issued by freight forwarder to the shipper. In this b/l the name of actual importer will reflect as consignee.
IATA (international air transport organization): an organization of all the air transporters across the world. Any new air transporter needs an IATA license to operate.
LCD (inland container depot): icds' are a kind of CFS only. The only difference is that icds' are far from the ports. These are generally called dry ports.
LGM (import general manifest): a document issued by carrier/agent to the port authorities stating that a container is coming for imports.
LC (letter of credit): LC is the master document. It is opened by the bank of consignee in favor of the shipper. All the terms and conditions of the trade are mentioned in this document.
LCL (less than container load): when one container contains cargo for more than one consignee.
Lo-lo (lift on lift off): it is generally used to describe the kind of terminals where vehicles/containers or any cargo are lifted through lifts and put onto the ship.
Mate's receipt (mate's receipt): a declaration given by the captain of the ship about the cargo. B/l is issued based on this.
MBL (master bill of lading): the b/l issued by carrier to the freight forwarder. In this b/l freight forwarder will be shown as consignee. This is done to hide the actual importers details from the carrier.
MLO (main line operator): the shipping lines, having linear services.
MTO (multimodal transport operator): a kind of license issued by dg-shipping. It authorizes carriers to issue multimodal b/l.
OT (open top): a kind of container which has no ceiling. Used for oversized cargo. Freight is more than general container.
Pod (port of discharge): the port where cargo is to be discharged.
Pol (port of loading): the port where cargo has been loaded on the ship.
Reefer (refrigerated container): the containers having refrigeration units. They have a battery to operate on and are connected to external power at ports and on ships. Used for shipping meats, fruits etc.
RMQ (rail mounted quay) a kind of crane used at container terminals.
Ro-ro (roll on roll off): it is a kind of terminal used to ship the vehicles in CBU forms. Vehicles are just driven through the terminal and parked in the ship.
SKD (semi knocked down): vehicles being shipped in parts. One vehicle is knocked down into 4-5 major parts and these parts are shipped.
Slot (slot): money charged by shipping lines from NVOCC operators to take containers from one port to another.
SOC (shipper owned container): the containers which have been arranged by the shipper/agent and not by the shipping line.
Tamp (tariff authority of major ports): a statutory body formed by Goi. It regulates the tariffs charged at all the 12 major ports in India.
TEU (twenty feet equivalent unit): represents a unit for containers. One teu is equal to one container of 20' length.
THC (terminal handling charges): charges to be paid to terminal operator (most of the cases-ports). It includes loading charges and charges paid to the stevedores.

Shipping Surcharges - CAF, BAF, All-In-one
Some of the way issuer Bill-of-Lading and issuer of Arrival Notice could pinch you to death

All in rate - meaning that the cost of transportation includes all the additional fees provided for under the conditions of carriage. For example, in the case of freight under LILO, this means that in the U.S., except for freight, loading and unloading, also includes all related costs, such as BAF, CAF, etc.

Basic Service Rate Additional (BSRA) is the charge levied by shipping companies to importers for LCL cargo, including the port charges, transport to an unpacking depot (see CFS) subsequent sorting and storage of the goods and finally loading onto a vehicle collecting the goods for delivery to the buyer.

Bunker Adjustment Factor (BAF) - an adjustment to shipping companies' freight rates to take into account fluctuations in the cost of fuel oil (bunkers) for their ships.

Currency Adjustment Factor (CAF) is an adjustment to shipping companies' freight rates to take into account the effect over time of fluctuations in currency exchange rates.

Destination Delivery Charge (DDC) A charge assessed by the carrier for handling positioning of a full container within the container yard. Most of Forwarder will charge $25 per CBM / Min. $50.00

IHC - Inland Haulage Charges means the transportation charges from inland container freight station to sea port of loading or vice versa. If Cargo freight station is away from sea port of loading, the shipper completes customs formalities at such container freight station and arranges to move cargo to port of loading either by rail or road. Normally, most of cargo in such locations is moved by rail. If moved by rail, the charges of moving goods from such location to port of loading or movement charges from port to inland freight station is known as Inland Haulage Charges. Inland haulage charges vary CFS to CFS, as the distance from CFS to port of loading varies one to another. Inland Haulage Charges – IHC – is collected by shipping line when releasing Bill of lading for export shipments, and when issuing Delivery Order in case of import.

IMO surcharge is applied when transporting goods classified by the UN as hazardous (in accordance with the IMDG code (International Marine Dangerous Goods code)) , the shipping company imposes a surcharge on the sea freight. This relates to the additional handling required for planning the goods at the terminal and onboard the ship.

ISPS or SEC - security charges

GRI - planned increase of a base rate from a certain date

THC, Terminal handling charge, levied by CY and CFS operators for goods passing through their operations. THC are additional costs, on top of the sea freight, charged by the shipping company for the handling of containers at the container terminal before being loaded onboard a vessel. Examples include the unloading of the container from a truck, stacking and transport from the stacking location to just below the crane. This concerns FCL (Full Container Load) shipments.

Other way of look
THC, Terminal handling charge is the charges collected by terminal authorities at each port against handling equipment and maintenance. THC varies port to port of each country, as the cost of handling at each port differs one to another port, depends up on the total cost of port terminal handling at each location. Normally, Terminal handling charges (THC) for exports is collected from shipper by shipping lines while releasing Bill of Lading after completion of export customs clearance procedures. In the case of shipments moved from inland destinations other than sea port, the said THC is collected at same location while releasing bill of lading by carrier. The import terminal handling charges is collected by shipping carriers at the time of issuing delivery order to consignee to take delivery of goods.

Heavy Weight Charge is a surcharge for exceeding certain weight. 20ft containers exceeding the weight of 14,000 kg tare (container) are subject to a heavy weight surcharge (HWT). An empty 20ft container weighs approximately 2,300 kg. 40ft containers are not subject to a heavy weight surcharge. Both 20ft and 40ft containers can carry a load of more than 28,000 kg.

Port Congestion Surcharge applied by shipping lines to cover losses caused by congestion and idle time for vessels serving that port. Shipping lines therefore have the right to impose a surcharge on the freight to recover revenue lost. Another factor which influences port congestion surcharge would be labor disputes. Port congestion surcharges are calculated as a percentage of the freight rate.

PSS (Peak Season Surcharge) is added to cargo moving from ASIA. This fee remains in effect for the duration of a typical Peak Season, currently from June 1 - October 31.

Winter Surcharge is imposed for all containers to cover extra costs related to serving the port due to harsh weather, convoy restrictions, ice conditions etc. This surcharge is only effective during winter period.

Additional terms and fees to local agents of the line usually via port forwarding.

Demurrage penalties are imposed for excess use of container from its unloading at the terminal until the return of empty containers at the port (for imports) or from the date of receipt of the empty container to be loaded before the loading of a container loaded on a ship (for exports).

Period of container can be divided into Demurrage and Detention. Then Demurrage penalties imposed for excess use of container from its unloading at the terminal until the time of export from the terminal. Detention penalties imposed for excess usage container since its removal from the terminal until the return of empty containers at the port.

Administrative Fee = B / LFee = DocsFee (available in other notation) - Fees local agent line for paperwork. May apply for a bill of lading or container.

Additional port charges are paid port to port usually via port forwarding, can be collected directly to the port or the local agents of lines.

Storage - the rate for excess storage of cargo at the port. Is calculated from the moment of unloading at the terminal until the time of export from the terminal. Charged are charged at port rates. Usually quoted for TEU, s increasing the scale (longer the carrier is in port, the more expensive each day of storage).

For nomination for inspection - the rate for work on putting the container on the ground clearance (Customs, health, etc.). Charged at the rate the port, in fact. Rates for additional operations - the rates for any port is not provided for in the usual way of handling container (repacking, weighing, sealing, labeling, etc.). Charged at the rate the port, in fact.

Sample rates for local payments in the port
Containerships: 130 EUR THC + 25 EUR docs + 1950 EUR m / h = 205 EUR;
HAPAG: 75 eur THC + 6 EUR ISPS + 35 EUR docs + 1925 EUR m / h = 141 EUR;
Export of container - 10 day free trial, the first 5 days - 15 Eur / day, 6 days 30 EUR / day;
Keeping contact. - 5 days free of charge, day 6 - 9 Eur / day;
MSC: 100 EUR THC + 40 EUR docs + m / h 1940 EUR + ISPS 15 EUR = 195 EUR;
MAERSK: 120 EUR THC + 35 EUR ddf + 6 EUR ISPS + 1930 EUR m / h = 191 EUR;
Hamburg Sud: 110 EUR THC + 30 EUR docs + 16 EUR ISPS = 156 EUR;
OOCL: 74 EUR THC + 30 EUR docs + 11 EUR ISPS + m / h 30 EUR = 145 EUR.

Shipping Terms Abbreviations

Principals

CONSIGNEE - definition by: business dictionary > "Person/Entity at Destination"
SHIPPER - definitions by: CBP US Customs - business dictionary > "Person/Entity at Origin"
USPPI - U.S. Principal Party in Interest > "US Seller/Owner of Merchandise"

Affirmations, recitals and terms

CFR - Cost and Freight
INCOTERMS - International sales terms defining responsibilities of both the buyer and seller
SLAC - Shippers Load And Count
SLSC - Shippers Load Stow Count

Entities and authorities

CBP - US Customs and Border Protection
MARAD - Department of Transportation glossary of shipping terms
OFAC - Office of Foreign Assets Control
USCG - United States Coast Guard

Trade lanes and routes

NA WAF - North America to West Africa
USEC - United States East Coast
USGC - United States Gulf Coast
USPC - United States Pacific Coast

Shipping Port Terminology

A/S - Accessorial Services
AES - Automated Export System
ARB - Out port Arbitrary Trans-Shipment Fee
AWB - Air Way Bill
BAF - Bunker fuel Adjustment Factor
B/B - Break Bulk oversized equipment shipping
BAS - Basis ocean freight
BL - Bill of Lading
BRC - Bunker Recovery Charge
C/ADD - Commercial Address (departure location type/arrival location type)
CAF - Currency Adjustment Factor
CFS - Container Freight Station (warehouse)
CSC - Container service charge
CON - Congestion Surcharge
CUC - U.S. chassis usage charge
D/A - Destination Agent
D/D - Direct deposit [method for paying shipping & handling, no bank fees]
DDC - Destination Delivery Charge
DMRG - Demurrage [may be incurred due to late payment]
D/P - Container trucking Drop and Pick-up
D/R - Dock receipt
DTHC - Destination Terminal Handling Charges
EBAF - Emergency Bunker Fuel Adjustment Factor
ECTN - Electronic Cargo Tracking Notice (Numéro Visa Unique)
EEI - Electronic Export Information
EFS - Export Fuel Surcharges
E/S - Economy Service
ETA - Estimated Time of Arrival
ETS - Estimated Time of Sailing
EZ - Easy Shipping guides by Sefco Export
FIFO - First in, First Out
FCL - Full Container Load shipping [see video of Container Ship]
GRI - General Rate Increase
HAZMAT - Hazardous Materials
HBL - House Bill of Lading
H/C - High Cube container
HC - Harmonized Code
IHE / IL - Inland Haulage Export
LCL - Less than Container Load shipping
LDF - Liner Doc fee
L/L - Container trucking live-load
Lo/Lo - Lift on and Lift off shipping
L/S - Lump Sum
MAWB - Master Air Way Bill
MBL - Master Bill of Lading
MDF - Manual Documentation Fee
NVO - Non-vessel operating common carrier
O/A - Origin Agent
OBL - Original Bill of Lading
ODF - Documentation Fee - Origin
OHC - Handling Charge - Origin
P/S - Premium Service
PAI - Port Additional Import
Panamax - Panama canal maximum vessel width
PCS - Panama canal surcharge
POD - Port of Discharge*
POD - also: Proof of Delivery*
POL - Port of Loading
P/S - Premium Service
PSC - Port Security Charge
PSE - Port Security Export
R/ADD - Residential Address (departure location type/arrival location type)
additional trucker accessorial fees will apply.
Reefer - Refrigerated Cargo container
R/F - Cargo Roll Over Charge
Ro/Ro - Roll on, Roll off vessel shipping [see our videos of RoRo ships]
Routed - Routed transactions
SED - Shippers Export Declaration *see EEI
SER - Carrier Security Charge
SIT - Storage in Transit
SSL - Steam Ship Line
TLX RLS - Telex Release Bill of Lading
T/R - Bank to bank transfer [method for paying shipping & handling, involves bank fees]
TWIC - Transportation Worker Identification Credential
US C/C - United States Customs Clearance
US THC - United States Terminal Handling Charges

Commodities

FAK - Freight of all kinds
GOH - Garments On Hanger
H/H - High and Heavy equipment > Examples of What We Ship
HAZ - Hazardous Materials
HHG/PE - Household Goods and Personal Effects shipments
NOS - Commodity Not Otherwise Specified
POV - Personally Owned Vehicle
VEHICLES & HEAVY EQUIPMENT SP-Self Propelled, WH-Wheeled, TR-Tracked, TT-Towable, SF - Static/Forkliftable, SNF - Static/NonForkliftable

AAM Advance Manifest Security Charge Amendment Fee (per Correction)
ACC Alameda Corridor Charge
AFD Tuticorin Feeder Surcharge
AMF Inbound Bill of Lading Amendment Fee
AMS Advance Manifest Security Charge
ARB Arbitrary (Various)
BAF Bunker Adjustment Factor
BUC Bunker Charge
CAF Currency Adjustment Factor
CBA Charge for Bulk Agricultural Products (Non Palletized or Non Blocked)
CBD (Canada) BC Carbon Tax Surcharge (Through Cargo on Rail - Destination)
CBL (Canada) BC Carbon Tax Surcharge (Through Cargo on Rail- Origin)
CCF (Canada) Canadian Currency Adjustment Factor
CCI Port Tax
CFM Advanced Fresh Air Management Plus (AFAM+) Charge
CFS CFS Receiving Charge at Origin
CHD Chassis Charge - (Destination)
CHO (for FE) CHS (for AUS/NZL) Chassis Fee - (Origin)
CHS Chassis Fee (USA)
CIF Reefer container inspection Fee
CLE Equipment Cleaning Fee
CSC Container Service Charge
CSS Carrier Security Charge (except cargo received at Taiwan)
CUS Customs Clearance Fee
DCD Documentation Fee
DCF Inbound Documentation Fee
DDC Destination Delivery Charge
DGC Dangerous Goods Charge/Premium
DGI Dangerous Goods Charge on Inland at Destination
DGO Dangerous Goods Charge on Inland at Origin
DGS Dangerous Goods Supervision
DOC Outbound Documentation Fee
EDI Electronic Data Interchange Fee
EHD Equipment Handover Charge at Destination
EHL Equipment Handover Charge at Origin
EIR Equipment Interchange Receipt Fee
EMP Equipment Maintenance Charge
ENA EU24 Entry Summary Declaration Amendment Charge
ENF ENS Filing Charge
EXC Export Service Fee
GAS Gulf of Aden Charge
GIC Gate in Charge
GOC Gate Out Charge
GOH Garment On Hangers Premium
HCR Hazardous Cargo Rail Surcharge
HQA High Cube Additional
HSS High Security Seal Charge
IFD Inland Fuel Charge (USA)
IFD Inland Fuel Surcharge at Destination
IFL Inland Fuel Surcharge at Load
IRC Railcar cabling services fee for refrigerated containers - Far East to Canada
LWR Low Water Surcharge
MAR MARPOL Surcharge (Environmentally Friendly Fuel)
NOX Noxious Oxide Surcharge
ORC Origin Receiving Charge
OWC Overweight Container Charge
PAI Port Access Charge - (for Brisbane Australia only)
PCS Port Congestion Surcharge
PDU Port Dues Charge
PNC Panama Canal Transit Fee
PSF CY Port Service Charge – (for Australia only)
PSS Peak Season Surcharge
RSC Seal Handling Charge
SEC ISPS Security Charge in Europe
SED Security Surcharge at Destination
SEO Security Surcharge at Origin
SER Temporal Electricity Charge
SMA Security Manifest Amendment
SMD Security Manifest Declaration
SPD Swedish Port Dues
SPS Shanghai Port Surcharge
SUZ Suez Transit Fee
TAC Tri-axle Chassis Charge
TAD Transport - Additional at Destination
TAL Transport - Additional at Origin
THC Terminal Handling Charges at Origin (CY Cargo)THD Terminal Handling Charge at Destination
TOC Taiwan Top Off Charge
TPI Port Tax (Portugal)
TSC Terminal Service Charge
VAS Value Added Tax Surcharge
WHF Wharfage (Houston/New Orleans)
WSC Winter Surcharge

12 Pin - Chassis with 12 locking points.
Act of God - An act occasioned by violence of nature which no reasonable human foresight, care, or diligence can anticipate or prevent.
Ad Valorem - An additional charge when a shipper desires to be covered for a valuation in excess of that allowed by the carrier’s regular bill of lading.
Add-Ons - Additional charges.
Agency - An organization working on behalf of a principal. Company who represents/acts on behalf of another entity.
AI - All Inclusive.
All-Water - Service rendered by carriers on a port to port basis; cargo moving via ocean carrier only.
AMS - Automated Manifest Systems.
Anti-Rebating - Document signed by shipping companies and filed with Federal Maritime Certification Commission and in ocean tariffs attesting that rebates are not allowed and will not be paid by a company.
AQ - Any quantities.
AQI - Agriculture Quarantine Inspection
Arrival Notice - Documentation that notifies consignee of arrival information and freight charges due. Form produced by carrier for advanced notification to consignee of cargo arrival.
As Freighted - All cargoes freighted on same unit; Weight or Measure.
Assignment - An act which involves transfer of rights, title, and interest for the purpose of assigning goods by endorsement of the bill of lading.
Back Haul - The return leg of a round trip.
Banding - Securing of cargo on a pallet generally by a steel/metal stripping.
Bank Draft - A bank instrument wherein payment of funds is guaranteed.
Bank Guarantee - Accepted in lieu of original bill of lading to release cargo.
Barges - Conveyance used to carry loose cargo or containers in smaller volumes than mother vessels.
Base Port - Port from which standard tariff rate applies normally serviced directly by members.
Bay - Section of a vessel where containers or cargo is stored.
Bay Plan - Section by section breakdown of a vessel to indicate where cargo is stowed.
Berth - Where the vessel docks.
Berth Terms - Carrier provides stevedoring.
Bill of Exchange - See Draft.
Bill of Lading (B/L) - Official legal document representing ownership of cargo; negotiable document to receive cargo; contract for cargo between shipper and carrier.
Bill of Lading Number - Carrier’s reference number assigned to bill of lading.
Bill of Lading Terms - All details relevant to shipment.
Bolster - Bracing of a commodity in a container.
Bonded Warehouse - A secured Customs approved facility where cargo and containers are stored under close surveillance.
Booking - Cargo commitment made to carrier (i.e. a reservation).
Box Rate - A lump sum charge to move cargo in various size containers from origin to destination.
Boycott Certificates - Required by certain countries restricting carriage to certain flag vessels.
Breakbulk - Loose cargo containers and non-containerized cargo; vessel whose hatch is built to accommodate various bulk commodities. (Some of the company charges $0.04/kg, Min $35.00)
Breakbulk Vessel - Carries containers and non-containerized cargo; vessel whose hatch is Vessel built to accommodate various bulk commodities.
Bulk Carrier - Vessel specifically built to carry raw materials.
Bulk Containers - Containers used specifically for raw materials.
Bull Rings - Rings for lashing the cargo in containers.
Bunker Adjustment Factor - Surcharge assessed by carrier applied to freight rates to supplement fuel Factor (BAF) costs.
Bunker Surcharge - See Bunker Adjustment Factor.
Bunkers - Fuel used by vessel.
C & F - Cost and Freight. Terms of sale. Seller quotes price including the cost of goods and all transportation charges to the named point of destination.
Cabotage - Shipments between ports of the same nation. Many countries, like the U.S., have laws requiring domestic-owned vessels to perform domestic interport water transportation services.
Cargo Bays - Doors at cargo warehouse where vehicles back in to load/unload cargo.
Carrier - One who owns, operates or charters vehicles of transportation for movement of cargo.
Carrier’s Certificate - U.S. Customs form used in lieu of bill of lading.
CBM - 1 Cubic Meter = 35.314 cubic feet.
Cell - Container slot where container fits into place on vessel.
Cell Guides - A guide for each container slot.
Certificate of Origin - Formal document (required at destinations) stating origin of cargo and relevant cargo details.
CFS - Container Freight Station. Storage/warehouse facilities for loading/unloading less than full container orders.
CFS Cargo - Loose containerizable cargo handled in a container freight station (warehouse).
CFS/CFS - Cargo received and stuffed by carrier at origin and devanned by carrier at destination.
CFS/CY - Cargo received and stuffed by carrier at origin then delivered intact at destination.
Chains and Binders - Used to secure (brace & chock) oversize cargo to equipment.
Charter VSC - Vessel whose owner makes vessels available on bid basis.
Charterer - An organization/company who enters an agreement with a principal to use their vessels for a specified time.
Chassis - Trailer or wheeled unit on which a container is placed in order to move container over the road.
CHB - See Custom House Broker.
Claim - A request for payment by a customer due to a shortage or damage to cargo.
Clear (Clean) on Board - Bill of lading issued without exceptions.
COFC - Container on a Flat Car. Containers moving on articulated flat rail cars without chassis.
Collect - Money to be paid at destination prior to release of bills of lading.
Combined Transport Bill of Lading - Provides a combined transport by at least two different modes of transportation from a place at which the goods are taken to a place designated for delivery.
Commercial Invoice - A document on shipper’s letterhead that contains an accurate description of the merchandise and show country or origin. All items must be itemized.
Commodity Description - Description of goods being shipped.
Company Guarantee - A letter of guarantee from a company identifying the carrier of responsibility associated in the release of goods in lieu of bill of lading. Protection in writing to carrier by private company.
Conference - Group of carriers allowed by FMC to determine a level of rates, services and rules of a given trade route bound together by a common tariff or certain geographic area.
Conference - A group of steamship companies offering equitable freight rates, standardized shipping practices and regularly scheduled service between designated ports. These arrangements are given anti-trust immunity as authorized by the Shipping Act of 1984.
Conference Carrier - Carrier that belongs to the conference.
Conference Certificate - Certificate declaring that the carrier is a member of the conference.
Connecting Carrier - An intermediary carrier utilized to connect cargo to/from mother vessel (See Feeder).
Consignee/Importer - Ultimate receiver of cargo designated on the original bill of lading.
Consignor - Person or firm by whom articles are shipped (i.e. shipper).
Consolidation - Effort extended to put same destination cargo together in same container for ease of delivery.
Consortium - Group of carriers pooling resources in a trade lane to maximize their resources efficiently.
Consular Invoice - Document required by some foreign countries showing exact information as to consignor, consignee, value description, etc. for a shipment.
Consulate Copy - Copy of the B/L signed for consulate purpose.
Consulate Legalization - Shipping documents must be presented to the Consul for legalization, either prior to or right after sailing.
Container - A truck trailer body that can be detached from the chassis for loading into a vessel, a rail car or stacked in a container depot. Containers may be ventilated, insulated, refrigerated, flat rack, vehicle rack, open top, bulk liquid or equipped with interior devices. A container may be 20 feet, 40 feet, 45 feet, 48 feet or 53 feet in length, 8'0" or 8'6" in width, and 8'6" or 9'6" in height.
Container Load Plan (CLP) - Describes how the inside of container is stowed with cargo.
Container Number - Identification number assigned to each container.
Container Pool / Depot - Where containers are stored usually inland for container availability to shippers or consignees. Carrier location to hold empty containers, various points for shipper's utilization; an area designated for storage of empty .
Container Ship - Vessel built to accommodate ocean containers.
Container Stuffing List (CSL) - List showing how cargo is stowed in each container.
Container Yard - Facility where full and empty containers are stored.
Containerized - All cargo loaded into a container.
Cooper - Warehouse worker assigned to reconstruct or repair cartons, crates, boxes, etc.
Corner Casting - Devise on each corner (top and bottom) of a container for lifting up or securing down of unit. Synonym: Corner Fitting
Corner Posts - Steel reinforcements at corner of each container.
Corporate Guarantee - See Company Guarantee.
Cost Insurance - Terms of sale. Seller quotes a price including cost of goods, insurance Freight (CIF)and transportation charges to point of destination.
Credit Agreement - Agreement between carrier and shipper for release of cargo with promise to pay ocean freight within specified time. Document signed by the shipper which binds shipper to credit terms of the conference or agreement body.
Cross Docking - The process of moving merchandise directly from the receiving dock to the shipping dock, eliminating the need to place the merchandise in storage.
Cubic Foot - 1 Cubic Foot = 1728 Cubic Inches.
Currency Adjustment Factor (CAF) - Percentage of money used to equalize a difference in currency values. A percent of the base ocean freight.
Customs - Government agency which inspects cargo, insures proper cargo clearance, proper forms are filed, and correct duties/fees are paid.
Customs Clearance - Shipment cleared by Customs for movement.
Customs Duty - Monies paid to U.S. Customs for goods entered into U.S. from foreign countries.
Customs House Broker (CHB) - Agent representative licensed by FMC who negotiates customs clearance Broker (CHB)for import cargo on behalf of the consignee through U.S. Customs.
Customs Station - Area where containers are brought for Customs inspection.
Customs Warehouse - Where cargo is temporarily stored awaiting inspection or where cargo is stored when seized by Customs due to lack of permit/entry.
Cut Off - Last possible date cargoes may be delivered to a ship or designated point.
CY - Container Yard. Container yard where full containers are received and picked up. Storage area for container.
CY/CFS - Cargo loaded in a full container by a shipper at origin and delivered to a pier facility at destination where it is devanned for delivery.
CY/CY - Cargo loaded in a full container by a shipper at origin and delivered to carrier’s terminal for vessel loading and discharged
at destination terminal for pick up intact by consignee.
DAD - Delivery Authorized Documents (See Delivery Order).
Dangerous Cargo - Cargo of a hazardous nature as classified under Coast Guard regulations.
DDC - Destination Delivery Charge. A charge assessed by the carrier for handling positioning of a full container within the container yard.
Deconsolidation - Breakdown for distribution of various importers LTL cargo for movement to ultimate destination.
Delivery Order (DO) - Document authorizing domestic carrier to pick up cargo.
Demurrage - Storage charges assessed on cargo left on pier beyond free time.
Detention - See Per Diem.
Direct Consignment - One company shipping directly to another without a third party.
Discharge Port - Port terminal where cargo is unloaded from vessel.
DIT - Destination Interchange Terminal - The facility operated by the ocean carrier or his agent at which containers are interchanged with the delivering motor carrier.
Diversion - A change made either in the route of a shipment in transit or of the entire ship.
Dock - Where vessel positions itself to load/unload cargo.
Dock Receipt - Document used to transfer cargo from drayman acting on shipper behalf of steamship line.
Double Stack Car - Rail car capable of carrying two containers stacked one on top of each other.
Draft (Bill of Exchange) - A written order for a certain sum of money to be transferred on a certain date.
Draft Sight and Time - Sight Draft (S/D): A draft so drawn as to be payable upon presentation or acceptance.
Drawback - 99% refund of imported, duty paid materials, which are to be exported.
Drayage - Haulage of containers over the road via truck.
Dry Box - See Container.
Dry Container - See Container.
Drydock - Used to lay up vessels for repair.
Dunnage - Material used around cargo to prevent breakage or shifting, normally provided by shipper. Its weight is included in the rating.
Duty Drawback - Payment returned for cargoes re-exported or trade show material returned. A customs refund on re-exported cargo.
EDI - Electronic Data Interchange.
EIR - Equipment Interchange Receipt. Documents used to receive or deliver a full or empty container/chassis at any terminal or inland container pool.
Elcee - See Letter of Credit.
Electronic Data Interchange - Communications by computer to computer from one company to another.
Equalization - Compensation for additional charges incurred by shipper for delivering cargo to port designated by the carrier other than the closest port to the supplier.
ETA - Estimated Time of Arrival.
ETD - Estimated Time of Departure.
Export Declaration - Export Declaration (Shippers.) Bureau of Census document which spells out shipment details for entry to government statistical system. Documents for export shipping declaring value of cargo to U.S. Customs.
Export Documents - These documents required to export a shipment.
Ex-Works - Buyer receives the cargo directly from the factory and thereafter arranges shipment, insurance and other related services themselves.
FAK - Freight All Kinds. Usually refers to consolidated cargo.
FAS - Free Along Side. Seller quotes a price including delivery of the goods alongside the vessel.
FCL - Full Container Load.
Federal Maritime Commission - Government agency responsible for overseeing regulatory aspects of the Shipping Act.
Feeder - The transportation vehicle utilized to relay cargo from mother vessel to ultimate destination.
FEQ - Forty-foot Equivalent.
FEU - Forty-foot Equivalent Unit.
FF - See Freight Forwarder.
FFE - Forty-foot Equivalent.
FIFO - First In First Out.
FIO - Free In and Out. A party other than the steamship line provides for the stevedoring.
Flag Vessel - Every vessel has a flag distinguishing nationality.
Flag Waiver - Permission from government to carry cargo otherwise labeled for flag recipient.
Flat Bed - Truck designed to haul heavy or oversized non-containerizable cargo.
Flat Car - Railroad car on which container or container/chassis is placed.
Flat Rack - 20' & 40' metal platform with open sides, with bulk heads (i.e., no roof or side walls).
Floating Cranes - Heavy duty cranes brought in to handle cargo when unable to use gantry crane.
FMC - Federal Maritime Commission. U.S. regulatory body affecting ocean-going carriers. A U.S. government body that overseas all maritime rules and regulations.
FMC Number - Number assigned by a government agency authorizing a freight forwarder to operate.
FOB - Free On Board. A pricing term under which the seller must deliver the goods on board the ship at the point named at his own expense.
Force Majeure - State of emergency; all tariff rules can be altered to adjust shipper’s/carrier’s needs.
Foreign Trade Zone - Designed location providing duty-free storage area.
Fork Lift - Truck used for loading/unloading cargo into container.
Forwarder's Cargo Receipt - A negotiable document issued by a forwarder which will satisfy legal requirements for a letter-of-credit. Since a forwarder is not an NVOCC it cannot issue actual Bills of Lading. The FCR is a legally binding substitute for the B/L which was pioneered by Sea-Land and is now an industry standard.
Free Time - Storage allowed at carrier facility without penalties assessed.
Freight Claim - Formal letter with supporting documents, i.e., B/L, D/R, temperature chart, etc., making claim against carrier for lost or damaged cargo.
Freight Collect - Payment due at destination (consignee.)
Freight Forwarder - Federally licensed (by FMC) company that arranges the carriage of goods including connected services and/or associated formalities on behalf of a shipper or consignee.
Freight Release - Evidence that the freight charges for the cargo have been paid. If in writing, it may be presented at the pier to obtain release of the cargo. Normally, once the freight is paid freight releases are arranged without additional documentation. aka Freight Bill Receipt.
Freighted B/L - A bill of lading that lists all charges relevant to cargo movement from origin to destination.
Full Cellular Vessel - Fully containerized vessel.
Gantry Crane - Port crane to load and discharge containers from vessel, able to be positioned by moving along rail tracks.
Gear & Tackle - Ship’s equipment used to level, secure and brace cargo for loading/unloading from vessel.
General Average - Declared upon vessel damage, whereupon shippers pay a certain percentage of damage incurred; carrier declares percentage of responsibility by all participants.
Genset - Generator used to regulate temperature in a reefer container; can be run on its own power or plugs provided on pier/vessel.
GO - General Order. Cargo seized by Customs due to failure on part of consignee to make Customs entry within allotted free time.
GO Warehouse - A Customs warehouse utilized when cargo goes into General Order due to lack of permit/entry filed.
Goose Neck - Specialized chassis. Has hook-up higher than bed of chassis.
GRI - General Rate Increase.
Hatches - Where cargo is placed in conventional vessels.
HBD - Harbor Dues. Assessment when vessels enter harbor.
Heated Storage - Warehouse specifically heated to protect bottle cargo.
Heavy Lift - Single commodity exceeding the capacity of normal loading equipment and requiring special equipment and rigging methods for handling.
High Cube Container - Container 40' in length, 9’6" in height.
Holds - Sections of a vessel; bays.
House to House - Another term for CY/CY.
House to Pier - Shipper loaded container that will be deconsolidated at destination terminal for distribution.
Humping - Making up a train, joining of railcars by use of an inclined plain (gravity).
Hustler - Tractor that pulls containers around pier for positioning.
IA / Independent Action - Independent Action. A carrier can take an independent action in a conference resulting in a unique rate for that carrier within a conference; ability to file a rate independently of other carriers’ action.
ICC - Interstate Commerce Commission. International Chamber of Commerce.
IHC - Inland Haulage Charge. Cost to move a container to an inland destination.
ILA - International Longshoremen Association.
ILO - International Labour Organization. An United Nations agency, dealing with employment rights and working conditions, covering work at sea and in ports.
ILWU - International Longshoremen Workers Union.
IMCO Classification - International Maritime Control Organization Classification. Classification for hazardous cargo. See IMO.
IMDG - International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code. A code, representing the classification of dangerous goods as defined by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in compliance with international legal requirements.
IMO - International Maritime Organization. An United Nations agency concerned with safety at sea. Its work includes codes and rules relating to tonnage measurement of vessels, load lines, pollution and the carriage of dangerous goods. Its previous name was the Inter-Governmental Maritime Consultative Organization (IMCO).
Importer - Receiver of goods from an overseas origin.
In Bond - Cargo that has not cleared customs, moving to destination under carrier’s control.
Inland Point - City with no port; landlocked city.
Insurance Certificate - Document which assures the consignee that insurance is provided to cover loss or damage to the cargo while in transit.
Interchange - Transfer of a container from one party
Interchange Agreement - Contract between steamship company and truckman that legally permits interchange of equipment.
Intermodal - Movement of cargo involving more than one form of transportation.
IPI - Inland Points Intermodal.
IT - (In-Transit) Type of customs document governing movement of in-transit (bonded) cargo.
JIT - Just In Time.
Jones Act - Section 27 of the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, requiring that all shipments by water between ports in the United States (including Puerto Rico) be carried by U.S. - flag, U.S. - built, and U.S. - crewed vessels.
KGS - 1 Kilogram = 2.205 lbs.
Knot - Speed of 1 nautical mile per hour. Nautical mile: 6082.66 feet, 1.152 statute miles, 1.852 kilometers.
Label Cargo - See Dangerous Cargo.
Laden on Board - A bill of lading that indicates a shipment has been loaded on board a vessel.
Land-bridge - Cross country rail service connecting two ocean ports.
Lash Barge - Type of container utilizing barges instead of container.
Lash Vessel - Acronym for Lighter Along Ship. Vessel able to carry multiple barges.
Lashed - Barge system; barges loaded on a vessel instead of a container.
Lashing Equipment - Various types of equipment used to secure containers/cargo on board vessel.
Letter of Credit - Bank-issued document authorizing transfer of funds from buyer to seller (L/C, Elcee)under established terms and conditions in international transactions.
Letter of Guarantee. - Letter provided to carrier in lieu of surrender of original bill of lading.
Letter of Indemnity - Frees one from any responsibilities. Protection in writing to carrier from performing a deviation to normal business.
License Cargo - Cargo necessitating license to move.
Liner Service - Carrier advertises fixed schedule of services; port calls not made on inducement basis.
Liner Train - Specially designed rail line for regular movement of liner/containerized cargo for one carrier.
LNG Carrier - Liquefied Natural Gas Carrier.
Load Length - Any piece of cargo exceeding 40' in length.
Load List - See Container Stuffing List (CSL).
Load Port - Port where cargo is actually loaded on vessel.
Low Boy - Special trailer used to accommodate over height cargo with flat bed, approximately 12' above ground.
LS or LM - Lump Sum. A local freight rate which is inclusive of all charges.
LT - 1 Long Ton = 2,240 lbs.
Manifest - An invoice of all cargo loaded on board a vessel. Entire listing of all cargo on board a vessel required by line, customs, Coast Guard.
Marks & Numbers - The identifying detail on a package. Actual markings which appear on packages.
Memo B/L - A bill of lading issued for in house purposes for cargo short shipped or loaded in advance of issuance of full bill of lading.
Merchant Haulage - Inland transportation performed by an inland carrier contracted by and for the account of the shipper.
Micro-Bridge - Cargo moves via land from/to inland point; another term for IPI.
Minimum B/L - The least amount you can charge per individual bill of lading.
MLB - Miniland Bridge. Cargo moves port to port via land; port to port via rail; port destination served overland by rail.
MT - 1 Metric Ton = 2,204.62 lbs or 35.314 cft.
Negotiable B/L - Original bill of lading endorsed by shipper that is used for negotiating documents with bank.
Negotiating Bank - Bank where shipper negotiates documents or where documents are first presented usually at country of origin.
Neutral Body - Investigating body designated by conference carriers to insure that rules are adhered to.
No Show - Cargo that fails to appear for vessel that is originally booked for.
Non-Negotiable B/L - Copy of original B/L which cannot be negotiated with bank.
NOS - Not Otherwise Specified (in Tariff).
Notify Party - Company/person who appears on the bill of lading to be notified when cargo arrives. Could be different from consignee — usually actual receiver of goods.
NVOCC (NVO) - Non Vessel Operating Common Carrier. Company who charters space aboard vessels, then sells that space to prospective shippers.
OB - On Board.
OBL - Original Bill of Lading. See Negotiable B/L.
OCP - Overland Common Point.
Off Dock Location - Depot away from main terminal used to load/unload cargo-truck/rail.
On Board B/L - A Bill of Lading in which a carrier acknowledges that goods have been placed on board a certain vessel.
On Carriage - Movement of cargo by connecting carrier to ultimate destination.
On Deck Stowage - Cargo stowed on deck of vessel.
Open Side/Open Top Container - Container open on top and sides with frame.
Open Top Container - Container with open top and tarp provided.
Opening Bank - Bank letters of credit are opened usually at destination.
OS&D - Abbreviation for "Over, Short or Damaged". Usually discovered at cargo unloading.
Out of Gauge - Cargo which exceeds the internal dimensions of the container in width, length, or height.
Outbound - Export shipments.
Over Landed - Cargo taken beyond original; port of discharge.
Over the Road Limitations - State or country regulations for weight limits allowed per container/truckload.
Packing List - List of packages for each shipment showing individual breakdown in weights/measures.
Pallet - Wooden structure generally 48 x 48 used to support cargo and ease movement by forklifts.
Particular Average - Carrier determines responsibility by specific participant.
Pentle Hook - Steel pivot upon which chassis and cab are connected.
Per Diem - Cost per day. Charge on container held by customers for an extended time; charges levied upon a trucker due to late return of equipment.
Pier - Where vessels pull alongside for loading/discharging.
Pier to House - Cargo received at pier loaded in a container and picked up at destination terminal intact by consignee.
Pier to Pier - Cargo movement delivered loose to pier at origin point and picked up loose at destination terminal.
Piggyback - Point-to-point movement of one transportation vehicle on another.
Pilferage - Cargo stolen from container or terminal.
Pilot Boat - Conveys pilot to ocean vessel.
Place of Delivery - Actual final destination of cargo could be water or inland.
Plimsoll Mark - Depth to which a vessel may safely load, identified by a horizontal line around the ships hull.
Pool Location - See Container Pools.
Positioning - Moving of empty equipment from surplus areas to deficient areas.
Prepaid - Shipper responsible for ocean freight charges prepaid at destination.
Prepaid Bill of Lading - Freight paid prior to movement. Money to be paid prior to issuance of bill of lading.
Product Carrier - Caters to specialty commodities.
Project Rates - Rates established for specific project.
PTI - Pre Trip Inspection.
Purchase Order - Common grouping of orders for goods/services. Several SKU categories may be listed on one purchase order. Most customers group their orders in a particular way to facilitate distribution at the other end. For example, one purchase order for an apparel importer might encompass 2 dozen green sweaters and 2 dozen red sweaters. If those P.O.s originated from the same store, it is simple for the store to put all items under that P.O. onto the right truck.
Rail Pig - A railroad owned container (trailer).
Rail Ramp - Used to unload rail cars or trailers.
Rail Terminal - Place where railroad cars terminate and/or turn around.
Rail Yard - Location where rail cars are concentrated for loading and unloading of containers.
Railhead - Location for loading and unloading containers at railroad terminal.
Rates - Charge for moving cargo between two points (i.e. Ocean Freight).
Received for Shipment B/L - Issued on receipt of cargo; cargo not necessarily loaded yet.
Reefer - Unit equipped to carry refrigerated cargo.
Reefer Plug - Electrical outlet on ship for maintaining temperature.
Return Cargo - Cargo to be returned to original place of receipt.
Revenue Ton - Number of tons which freight is paid for; per ton.
RO/RO Vessel - Roll-on/Roll-off Vessel. Vessel with dual cargo handling capability including a ramp where wheeled cargo can be
driven into ship.
ROE - Rate of Exchange.
Sailing Schedule - Published schedule of sailing dates of vessels departures and arrivals.
Schedule B - Government listing to properly declare cargo; seven digit number assigned by the Bureau of Census to identify types of Cargo.
SCM - Supply Chain Management.
Sea Way Bill - Bill of lading used for through consignment; no original bill of lading required, I.D. only.
Sea-Air - Container moving both modes. Movement of cargo by sea to connecting discharge port, then air freighted to ultimate destination.
Seals - Attached to locking device to prevent pilferage and certify no tampering, made of plastic or aluminum attached by Customs or carrier.
Self Sustained Vessel - Vessel that doesn’t require shore equipment to load/unload cargo.
Set Point - Specific temperature that a refrigerated container has been set to keep. Ideally the set point and the actual temperature should be identical throughout the voyage.
Shed - Small building that holds LTL cargo for loading vessel.
Ship’s Chandlers - Suppliers of various items to the vessel.
Shipper - Group, company, person designated on OBL who sold cargo to ultimate receiver of goods.
Service Contract - A rate negotiable and agreed to between two parties allowing for a particular rate based on volume; written agreement between carrier and customer for specified rate, volume, and service level by carrier over an agreed time.
Shipper Pool - Where containers belonging to shipper are stored.
Shipper’s Load Stow & Count - Contents of a container as stowed and counted by shipper. Cargo loaded and stowed by shipper in container; CY load.
Shipper’s Reference Number - A shipper’s ID number for a shipment.
Shipping Act of 1984 - Congressional legislation establishing U.S. regulations for the ocean transportation industry.
Ships Chandlers - Suppliers of various items to the vessel.
Shipside - Cargo located alongside vessel.
Short Landed - Cargo volume count less than originally shipped.
Short Shipped - Cargo missing a vessel that originally intended for due to carrier’s option.
Sleepsheet - Method of loading packages in a container via a thin liner board and forklift.
Slot - Compartment for containers; space on vessel for container.
Slot Charter - Carrier charters slot space on other carrier’s vessel.
SS - Steamship.
ST - 1 Short Ton = 2,000 lbs.
Stack Train - Containers placed two high on rail car.
Stacking Cone - Metal cone for stacking containers.
Statutory Notice - Specific time period before a rate regulation can become effective.
STC - Said to Contain. Amount and description of cargo with container.
Stevedore - Terminal operator who is designated to facilitate the operation of loading and discharging vessels and various terminal activities.
Storage Charge - Charge for goods held in railroad or other warehouses under fixed agreement for periods of time, and which is not included in other service arrangement.
Store Door Delivery - Movement of goods to the consignee´s place of business, customarily applied to movement by truck.
Stowage - Space in vessel where cargo is stowed.
Straddle Carrier - Machine used for positioning containers in yard.
Straight Frame - Type of chassis used to move containers.
Stripping - Physical removal of cargo from the carrier´s container (Unstuffing).
Stuffing - Physical loading of cargo into carrier´s container.
Sufferance Warehouse - Bonded Customs warehouse in Canada.
Supplier - Person supplying materials to exporter/shipper/consignee/importers.
Supply Vessel - Vessel that carries supplies from shore to platform.
Surcharges - Additional charges above ocean freight (See Add Ons).
Surveyor - One who is hired to verify damages.
T & E - Transfer and Export. A Customs Document.
Tanker - Carries liquid commodities (oil, etc.).
Tanker Tainer - Container used to transport liquid commodities.
Tare Weight - Weight of an empty container. Gross weight = net weight + tare weight.
Tariff - List of rules, regulations and rates applicable to specific trade lanes. Document with regulations and rates applicable to specific trade lanes. A schedule of charges to move commodities between two areas.
Terminal - Building closely aligned to dock used to collect, store and dispatch cargo.
TEU - Twenty Foot Unit. Twenty Foot Equivalent container.
THC - Terminal Handling Charge. Charge assessed by the terminal for the positioning of cargo within the terminal/yard.
Tiers - A horizontal division of a vessel from bottom to top. The numbers run from bottom to deck and from deck upwards and are used as a part of the indication of a stowage place for containers.
To Order of - Shipper is owner of goods until endorsed B/L is presented to carrier by Shipper/receiver.
TOFC - Trailer on a Flat Car.
Top Handlers - Equipment that unloads/loads containers at container yard.
TIR - Transport International des Merchandises par la Route; Trailer Interchange Receipt; Terminal Interchange Receipt; Transport International Route; Interchange receipt between trucker and ocean carrier; certificate of container/equipment condition at time of interchange. Document used for the interchange of containers showing condition of container when picked up at the terminal.
TOS - Terms of Sale (i.e., FOB/CIF/FAS).
Trading House - Consortium of buyers/sellers of various commodities at high volume.
Trailer - Container and chassis as one unit.
Tramp Vessel - Non-liner service where owner sends vessel wherever he can arrange business.
Transloading - Taking cargo loaded on one vessel and delivered on another vessel by another line. One carrier utilizing another carrier’s vessel to transport cargo to final destination.
TRC - Terminal Receiving Charge. Charge assessed by the terminal for cargo being delivered for export.
Tri-Axle - A third axle used for supporting additional weight.
Trucker’s Depot - Where trucks load/unload cargo.
Tug Boats - Boats used to guide vessels in/out port.
Underdeck Stowage - Cargo/container that is stowed below main deck. Stowed under deck.
Unit Train - Train comprised of containers from one container company.
USDA - United States Department of Agriculture.
Ventilated Container - Container used for cargo needing ventilation.
Vessel Ton - 100 cubic feet.
VIAP - Vessel Insurance Additional Premium.
VOCC - Vessel Operating Common Carrier.
Voyage - Movement of vessel from one point to destination.
W/M (WORM) - Weight or Measurement.
Waiver - Document used to allow cargo carriage by different flag vessels than original destination country vessels. Also on government cargoes where cargo flag cannot carry the shipments.
War Risk - Surcharge covering additional insurance premium incurred by a vessel entering a war zone.
Warehouse - Building usually located in back up areas or inland where cargo is stored.
Water Feeder - Transports cargo to non-direct ports of call.
Weight - Gross / Long Ton: 1,016 kg (2,240 lbs). Net / Short Ton: 907.19 kg (2,000 lbs). Metric / Kilo Ton: 1,000 kg (2,204.6 lbs).
Wharfage - A port surcharge assessed when vessel comes alongside.
Wire Transfer - Electronic transfer of funds.
YTD - Year To Date.

Companies that move freight around the world have a multitude of shipping providers to choose from and each one uses a different format for their freight rate sheet. Deciphering freight rate sheets can be a daunting task for those with little or no experience in the shipping industry. However, it is crucial that shipping customers understand the information they contain. Therefore we have compiled a list of common terms and abbreviations that may be found on a freight rate sheet. Many shipping companies use alternate or additional terms and abbreviations however. Therefore, it is advisable that customers receiving freight rate sheets with unfamiliar terms or abbreviations clarify their meanings with the shipping company.

Accessorial Charges - Charges that are applied to the base tariff rate or base contract rate, e.g., bunkers, container, currency, destination/delivery.
Aden War Risk Surcharge - A surcharge on goods transiting the Gulf of Aden used to compensate shippers for additional costs including crew risk compensation, cancellation of economical speed, and redeployment of vessels.
Ad Valorem - A term from Latin meaning, “according to value.” An import duty applied as a percentage of the cargo’s dutiable value.
AI - Abbreviation for “All Inclusive.” The total price to move cargo from origin to destination, inclusive of all charges (limited to transportation costs).
Arrival Notice - A notification by carrier of ship’s arrival to the consignee, the “Notify Party,” and – when applicable – the “Also Notify Party.”
BAF - Abbreviation for “Bunker Adjustment Factor.” Used to compensate steamship lines for fluctuating fuel costs. Sometimes called “Fuel Adjustment Factor” or FAF.
Base Rate - The cost of shipping a container from one point to another. Rates fluctuate frequently based on a number of different factors.
BL Fee - “Bill of Lading Fee.” A fee charged by the shipping line for the processing of the bill of lading on behalf of the client.
BUC - Abbreviation for “Bunker Charge.” An extra charge sometimes added to steamship freight rates; justified by higher fuel costs. Also known as Fuel Adjustment Factor or FAF.
CAF - Abbreviation for “Currency Adjustment Factor.” A charge, expressed as a percentage of a base rate, that is applied to compensate ocean carriers of currency fluctuations.
Cargo Data Declaration Fee - A surcharge assessed for the additional costs of declaring cargo information in advance to the European Union authorities as required for authorities to evaluate any potential security and safety threats.
Carrier - Any person or entity who, in a contract of carriage, undertakes to perform or to procure the performance of carriage by rail, road, sea, air, inland waterway or by a combination of such modes.
CBM (CM) - Abbreviation for “Cubic Meter.”
CFS - Abbreviation for “Container Freight Station.” A shipping dock where cargo is loaded (“stuffed”) into or unloaded (“stripped”) from containers. Generally, this involves less than containerload shipments, although small shipments destined to same consignee are often consolidated. Container reloading from/to rail or motor carrier equipment is a typical activity. These facilities can be located in container yards, or off dock.
Chassis Utilization Surcharge - A fee imposed for the use of a chassis in conjunction with the shipping container to facilitate overland transportation.
CL - Abbreviation for “Container load”.
COD - Abbreviation for “Collect (cash) on Delivery.”
Congestion - The term used for situations where ships have to queue up and wait for a spot so they can load or offload.
Container Yard (CY) - A materials–handling/storage facility used for completely unitized loads in containers and/or empty containers. Commonly referred to as CY.
CSF - Abbreviation for “Carrier Security Fee.” Charges for security of cargo during the shipment.
Customs - A government agency charged with enforcing the rules passed to protect the country’s import and export revenues.
Customs Filing Fee - A fee paid to the customs broker for arranging your customs clearance.
Customs Formalities - Requirements referring to customs regulations including documentation, security, information and physical inspection responsibilities.
CYRC - Abbreviation for “Container Yard Receiving Charge.”
DDC - Abbreviation for “Destination Delivery Charge.” A charge, based on container size, that is applied in many tariffs to cargo. This charge is considered accessorial and is added to the base ocean freight. This charge covers crane lifts off the vessel, drayage of the container within the terminal and gate fees at the terminal operation.
Demurrage - A penalty charge against shippers or consignees for delaying the carrier’s equipment or vessel beyond the allowed free time. Demurrage applies to cargo; detention applies to equipment. If you store a container at the port beyond free days, then demurrage and detention applies. If you keep a container for too long on any other premise (not on the port’s premises), then only detention applies.
Destination – The place to which a shipment is consigned or the place where the carrier actually turns over cargo to consignee or his agent.
Detention - A penalty charge against shippers or consignees for delaying carrier’s equipment beyond allowed time. Demurrage applies to cargo; detention applies to equipment. If you store a container at the port beyond free days, then demurrage and detention applies. If you keep a container for too long on any other premise (not on the port’s premises), then only detention applies
DTHC - Abbreviation for “Destination Terminal Handling Charge.”
Dutiable Value - The amount on which an Ad Valorem or customs duty is calculated.
EBS - Abbreviation for “Emergency Bunker Surcharge.” A surcharge added to the cost of freight to cover fuel costs.
EIS - Abbreviation for “Equipment Imbalance Surcharge.” A surcharge on an ocean freight rate, imposed by shipping lines, to recover costs related to removing large quantities of empty containers from a country or countries where there is no export use for those containers that had been previously imported into those places. The charge is usually a flat rate per container, and it is not necessarily applied in all trades or at all times, rather it is only applied when such trade imbalances necessitate large expenditure on shifting empty containers from one place to another.
ENS - Abbreviation for “Entry Summary Declaration.” An ENS is an electronic declaration of goods being carried into the customs territory of the community.
Environment Fee Destination - Environmental surcharges imposed by the destination port. Covers various contingencies such as hydrocarbon spill cleanup costs and other mandated fees.
ERR - Abbreviation for “Emergency Rate Restoration.” A surcharge added to the cost of freight to cover increases in shipping costs.
ERS - Abbreviation for “Equipment Repositioning Surcharge.” A fee imposed when a shipper requests that the carrier make empty containers available that must be moved from one location to another
ETA - Abbreviation for “Estimated Time of Arrival.”
ETD - Abbreviation for “Estimated Time of Departure.”
ETR - Abbreviation for “Estimated Time of Readiness.”
ETT - Abbreviation for “Estimated Time to Travel.”
FCL - Abbreviation for “Full Container Load.”
Forwarding Fee - A fee charged for the services of a freight forwarding company.
Freight Forwarder - A person whose business is to act as an agent on behalf of the shipper. A freight forwarder frequently makes the booking reservation. In the United States, freight forwarders are now licensed by the FMC as “Ocean Intermediaries.
FS - Abbreviation for “Fuel Surcharge.”
GAS - Abbreviation for “Gulf of Aden Surcharge.” Used to compensate shipping lines for additional costs incurred due to transiting the Gulf of Aden.
GRI - Abbreviation for “General Rate Increase.” Used to describe an across–the–board tariff rate increase implemented by conference members and applied to base rates.
Handling Fee - A fee for transporting, storing, or packaging goods.
Hazardous Surcharge - A surcharge imposed for shipping hazardous materials or goods.
HC - Abbreviation for “High Cube.” Containers that are 9 ft 6 ins high instead of usual 8 ft 6 ins.
ISF - Abbreviation for “Importer Security Filing.” A US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulation requiring importers and vessel carriers to provide data electronically to CBP for in-bound ocean shipments. Also known as 10+2.
ISPS - Abbreviation for “International Ship and Port Security Code.” It is an amendment to the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention (1974/1988) on minimum security arrangements for ships, ports and government agencies. Having come into force in 2004, it prescribes responsibilities to governments, shipping companies, shipboard personnel, and port/facility personnel to “detect security threats and take preventative measures against security incidents affecting ships or port facilities used in international trade.”
LCL (LTL) - Abbreviation for “Less than Container Load” or “Less than Truck Load.” The quantity of freight which is less than that required for the application of a container load rate.
MT - Abbreviation for “Metric Ton.”
NBC - Abbreviation for “New Bunker Charge.”
NOx - Abbreviation for “Nitrogen Oxides.” Refers to the gasses NO and NO2 produced from the reaction of nitrogen and oxygen gases in the air during combustion.
Ocean Rate - See Base Rate
Origin - Location where shipment begins its movement.
OWS - Abbreviation for “Over Weight Surcharge.”
Piracy Surcharge - A charge assessed to compensate shipping companies for increased costs associated with avoiding piracy and hijacking.
POD - Abbreviation for “Port of Destination.”
POL - Abbreviation for “Port of Loading.”
Port Dues - Fees charged by the harbor authority on ships using the port`s facilities.
Port of Entry - Port where cargo is unloaded and enters a country.
Port of Exit - Place where cargo is loaded and leaves a country.
PSS - Abbreviation for “Peak Season Surcharge.”
Release Fee - A fee charged by the destination port to release cargo for further movement or action.
SCS - Abbreviation for “Suez Canal Surcharge.” Used to compensate shipping companies for additional costs incurred due to transiting the Suez Canal.
Sea Freight Rate - See Base Rate
SES - Abbreviation for “Special Equipment Surcharge.”
Shipper - The person or company who is usually the supplier or owner of commodities shipped. Also called Consignor.
Surcharge - An extra or additional charge.
Surtax - An extra or additional tax.
TAD - Abbreviation for “Transit Accompanying Document.” A document accompanying uncleared goods during transit from one authorized location to another.
THC - Abbreviation for “Terminal Handling Charge.” Sometimes referred to as Capatazia, in particular in Brazil.
THC Destination - Terminal Handling Charges incurred at the destination port.
THC Origin - Terminal Handling Charges incurred at the port of origin.
Terminal Charge - A charge made for a service performed in a carrier’s terminal area.
Terror - The threat of terrorist acts against the shipping and port industry.
TEU - Abbreviation for “Twenty foot Equivalent Unit.”
Wharfage - A Charge assessed by a pier or dock owner against freight handled over the pier or dock or against a steamship company using the pier or dock.
3PL - Abbreviation for “Third Party Logistics.” A company that provides logistics services to other companies for some or all of their logistics needs. It typically includes warehousing and transportation services. Most 3PL’s also have freight forwarding licenses.

---- CHARGE CODE ---------- CHARGE NAME---------

ABB DAMAGED CONTAINER
ABF AIR BAG FEE
ABG AIR BAG FEE
ABR EXPENSES ABROAD
ACO COD (AGENT LOCAL)
ADF ADDITIONAL OCEAN FREIGHT
ADG ADDITIONAL HAULAGE
ADH ADDITIONAL HAULAGE
ADM ADMINISTRATIVE FEE
ADN ADMINISTRATION CHARGE
ADS ADDITIONAL SURCHARGE
ADT ADDITIONAL CONT MOVEMENT
ADV ADVANCE CHARGE
AFC AGENCY FEE
AGC ADEN GULF CROSSING SURCHARGE
AHW HIGH WATER ADDITIONAL
AID ALTERATION OF ISSUED DOCUMENTS (IMPORT)
ALC ALAMEDA CORRIDOR C
ALD ALLOWANCE DISCOUNT
ALE ADDITIONAL LIFTING OF EMPT CNTRS BY CUSTOMER ORDER
ALF ADDITIONAL LIFTING OF FULL CNTRS BY CUSTOMER ORDER
ALW LOW WATER ADDITIONAL
AMB B/L AMENDMENT FEE
AMC ADMINISTRATION CHARGE
AML RESERVED FOR FUTURE
AMV ADMINISTRATION CHARGE
ANF ARRIVAL NOTICE FEE
API ANIMALS & PLANTS I
ARB ARBITRARY
ASS ASSISTANCE
ATD ATTENDANCE
ATT ATTENDANCE
AVL AD VALOREM 2%
B25 BROKERAGE (2_5%)
B2K BROKERAGE (2%)
B3K BROKERAGE (3%)
B4K BROKERAGE (4%)
B5K BROKERAGE (5%)
B6K BROKERAGE (6%)
BAF BUNKER ADJUSTMENT FACTOR
BAR BARGE
BCC BC CARBON TAX
BCF BOOKING CHANGE FEE
BCS PORT CONTINGENCY SURCHARGE
BDG BRIDGE TAX
BFT BRAZILIAN FEDERAL POLICY TAX
BHS BANK HOLIDAY CHARGE
BKC BOOKING FEE-COMMON FEEDER
BKF BOOKING FEE
BLA B/L AMENDMENT FEE (CUSTOM)
BLB BL AMENDMENT BEFORE MANIFEST FILING
BLC BILL OF LADING CHANGE FEE
BLD B/L DELAY FEE
BLF B/L FEE
BLL B/L CHANGE FEE
BLM BL AMENDMENT AFTER MANIFEST FILING
BLN B/L (NON-NEG.) FEE
BLO B/L (ORIGINALS) FE
BLS SEAWAYBILL FEE
BLT B/L AMENDMENT FEE
BLW B/L WARRANTY
BMT BMT
BOK BOOKING FEE
BR B.S.R.A
BSF B/L SURRENDER FEE
BSL B/L SPLIT AND COMBINATION
BTP BARGE THROUGH PUT CHARGE
BTW BTW
BVI BV INSPECTION FEE
BWW B/L AMEND FEE-WITHOUT CUSTOMS WORK
CAA CUSTOM AREA ASSISTANCE
CAD CARGO ADMINISTRATION
CAF CURRENCY ADJUSTMENT FACTOR
CAL CAF ON L/T - DESTINATION
CAN CAN FEE
CAO CAF ON L/T - ORIGIN
CAP CAPATAZIAS
CAS STORAGE CALCULATION
CAT CONT ASSIGNING FOR LT
CBL COMBINE FRT
CCC CONT CLEANING FEE-CHEMICAL
CCE CUSTOM CLEARANCE EXPENSES
CCL CONTAINER CLEANING CHARGE
CCS CARGO COMPENSATION SURCHARGE
CCV CONTAINER COVER
CCW CONT CLEANING FEE-WASHING
CD CONFERENCE DISCOUNT
CD3 CHASSIS DAMAGE - - 3RD PARTY COLLECTION
CDC CUSTOMS DECLARATION
CDD CUSTOMS DECLARATION CORRECTOR
CDI CONTAINER DISCOUNT
CDO COMBINE D/ORDERS
CDQ CONT DEPOSIT
CDS CHANGE OF DESTINATION
CDU CUSTOMS DOCUMENTATION
CER CERTIFICATE
CEX CUSTOMS EXAMINATION
CF CENTRAL FREIGHT BUREAU
CFB COLLECTION FEE (ON COLLECT)
CFD COLLECTION ON DEMURRAGE
CFE C.O.D COLLECTION FEE
CFI COLLECTION FEE (ON PREPAID)
CFN CUSTOM FINE
CFS C.F.S.
CFT CENTRAL FREIGHT STATION
CFU CONT. FULL CHARGE
CHB CHEQUE BOUNCE
CHC CONTAINER HOLD
CHD CONTAINER HANDLING FEE
CHF CASH HANDLING FEE
CHL CONTAINER HOLDING CHARGE
CHN CONT. HANDLING CHARGE
CHS CHASSIS CHARGE
CHT CONT HANDLING (INTO TERMINAL)
CID CUSTOMS INSPECTION (EXP_EMPTY)
CIE CUSTOMS INSPECTION (EXP_FULL)
CII CUSTOMS INSPECTION (IMP)
CIR CARGO INSURANCE RECRUITMENT
CIS SECOND CUSTOMS INSPECTION (IMP)
CLC COLLECT CHARGE
CLE CLEANING
CLF COLLECTION FEES
CLL CONT CLEANING CHARGE
CLN CONTAINER CLEANING
CLR CLAIMS RECOVERY
CLS CONTAINER LOST
CLV CLEANING
CLZ CLEANING & WASHING - HAZ
CMA CONTAINER DAMAGE CHARGES
CMC CLAIM COMPENSATION
CMD CARGO MISDECLARATION CHARGE
CMF CHANGE MANIFEST FEE
CMG CUSTOM MANIFEST REGISTRATION
CMH COMISSION ON MERCHANT HAULAGE
CMR CARGO MISDECLARATION CHARGE
CMU COMMUNICATION FEE
CND CONFERENCE DISCOUNT
CNI CONTAINER INSURANCE
CNL CONGESTION AT LOAD PORT
CNR CONTAINER RENT
CNS CONGESTION AT DISC PORT
COA CHANGE OF STATUS
COC C.O.D COMMISION
COD C.O.D - CASH ON DELIVERY
COF COLLECTION FEE
COG CORRECTION CARGO FEE
COM CUSTOMS OVERTIME
CON CONVERSION
COO CERTIFICATE OF ORIGINAL
COR CORRECTION FREIGHT FEE
COS CONT CLEANING FEE- SWEEPING
COT CUSTOMS OVERTIME
COU COURIER CHARGE
COV COST RECOVERY SURCHARGE
CPI CONT POSITIONING FOR INSPECTION
CPR CONTAINER PREMIUM
CPS CHECKPOINT ASSISTANCE SERVICE
CRA CRANE LIFT
CRC CIRCUMSTANCE SURCH
CRF C.O.D REFUND
CRO CNTR REPAIRING COST
CRP COST RECOVERY PROGRAM
CRS COST RECOVERY SUPPLEMENT
CRT CRAN
CSD CONT. SERVICE CHARGE - IMPORT
CSF CONTAINER SERVICE FEE
CSL COORDINATION/SEAL
CSO STUFFING IN PORT
CSP CUSTOMS PENALTY
CSS CESS CHARGE
CST STUFFING IN PORT
CTA CUSTOM TARIFF RIGHTS
CTD CUSTODY FEE
CTF CROSS TRADE FEE
CTR CLEAN TRUCK FEE SURCHARGE
CTX CONTAINER TAX
CUC CUSTOM CLEARANCE EXPENSES
CUD CUSTOMS DISPATCH
CUF CUSTOM FINE
CUP CUSTOMS PENALTY
CUS CUSTOM DECLARATION
CUU CONTAINER USAGE CHARGE
CUX CUSTOMS EXAMINATION
CVN CHANGE VESSEL NAME
CYC CONTAINER YARD CHARGE
CYD CY/CFS DISCOUNT
DAC DEM ADMIN CHARGE
DAE D.A.E.
DBF DIRECT BOOKING FEE
DC2 B/L (DOC) FEE (2)
DC3 B/L (DOC) FEE (3)
DCA DEMURRAGE CALCULATION
DCB DISPATCHING CONTRIBUTION (VLC THROUGH TRG)
DCC DECLARATION CCIAA
DCD PICKUP & DELIVERY
DCE DOC FEE
DCF LANDING FEE
DCL DECLARATION FEE
DCO DV CONTAINER DAMAGE
DCT IMPORT DECLARATION FEE
DCV DECLARATION VARIOUS
DDC DESTINATION DELIVER CHARGE
DDL DIRECT DELIVERY
DDP DELIVERY PORTERAGES
DEC DEMURRAGE / STORAGE
DEE DEMOUNTING EMPTY CONTAINER
DEF DEAD FREIGHT
DEH DEMURRAGE HAULIER
DEM DEMURRAGE
DEP DEMURRAGE DEPOSIT
DET VEHICLE DETENTION
DEV DEVANNING CHARGE
DEW EMPTY CNTR FROM THE WAREHOUSE TO THE STUFFING
DFE DOCUMENTATION FEE
DFW FULL CNTR FROM THE STUFFING TO THE WAREHOUSE
DFY DOCUMENTATION FEE (EMPTY)
DGD DG SURCHARGE - DESTINATION PORT
DGR D.G LABEL REMOVAL CHARGE
DHA DEMURRAGE HAULIER
DHL COURIER CHARGE
DIC DISPACH CONTS
DID DIRECT DELIVERY
DIE DISCHARGING EXPENSES
DIF DEPOT INFRASTRUCTURE FEE
DII DEMURRAGE IN PORT - IMPORT
DIM DEMURRAGE IN PORT - IMPORT
DIR INTERMODAL RAIL DEMURRAGE
DIS DISINFECTION TAX
DIT DISINFECTION TAX
DIU DIRECT UNSTUFFING
DIV VEHICLE DIVERSION
DLP DELAYED PAYMENT
DME DISCHARGE EMPTY CONTAINER
DMO DEMURRAGE - EXPORT
DMP DEMURRAGE DEPOSIT
DO DELIVERY ORDER FEE
DOC B/L (DOC) FEE
DOE DEMURRAGE OUT PORT - EXPORT
DOF DOCUMENTATION FEES
DOI DEMURRAGE OUT PORT - IMPORT
DOL INBOUND DOC FEE
DOO DOOR OFF
DOR DO REVALIDATION FEES - IMPORT
DOS DOCUMENTATION STAMP
DOT DELIVERY ORDER FEE
DOV B/L (DOC) FEE
DOZ DOC FEE
DPD DEPOSIT DEMURRAGE
DPE DEMURRAGE IN PORT - EXPORT
DPS DESTINATION PORT/TERMINAL SECURITY CHARGE
DRC DRC COMMISSION
DRE DIFFERENCE IN R.O.E
DRO DROP OFF
DRY DRAYAGE
DSB DISBURSEMENT
DST DEMURRAGE STREET-TURN
DTA DETENTION
DTC VSL DETENTION CHARGE
DTI DTI LEVY
DTN DETENTION
DTR DOUBLE TRIP
DTT DETENTION
DUE PORT DUES
DUI DUPLICATE INVOICE FEE
DVA DOCUMENTATION FEE
DVI DIVERSION
DVO DELIVERY ORDER FEE
DVT DEVIATION
E01 LATE BL FEE
E02 T.H.C. HAZ CARGO
E03 T.H.C. GENERAL CARGO
E05 SERVICE FEE (CARRIER)
E06 HANDOVER FEE (MERCHANT)
E07 RAILAGE -HEAVY
E08 CTO AMEND. FEE
E09 MANIFEST CORRECTOR FEE
E10 RAILAGE HAZ SURCHARGE - HEAVY
E11 REEFER SURCHARGE + THC
E12 OOG SURCHARGE + THC
E13 CHANGE OF DESTINATION
E14 MISDECLARATION OF WEIGHT
E15 BOOKING CANCELLATION
E16 TELEX RELEASE FEE
E17 REEFER INSPECTION FEE
E18 THC - COMBI/CONVENTIONAL
E19 THC DIFF COMBI/CONV
E20 FUEL SURCHARGE LEVY
E21 LATE ARRIVAL
E22 RAILAGE HAZ SURCHARGE - LIGHT
E23 B/L FRAMING FEE
E24 RAILAGE - LIGHT
E25 LATE BOOKING CANCELLATION
E27 EXTRA / LATE RECEIVAL COSTS
E33 FOOD QUALITY UPGRADE
E37 CARGO DUES
E38 AGENCY
E51 DPI CERTIFICATE
E56 CMR FEE
E58 LAND BASED SECURITY
EBF EDI BOOKING FEE
EBK EDI BOOKING FEE
EBS EMERGENCY BUNKER CHARGE
ECC ECOLOGICAL CONTROL
ECF EQUIPMENT CONTROL CHARGE
ECH EMERGENCY CARGO HANDLING SURCHARGE
ECN ECN
ECS CONGESTION SURCHARGE
EDI ELECTRONIC DATA INTERCHANGE
EDS EXTRA DOC SET FEE
EES EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT SURCHARGE
EFC EQUIPMENT FREE CIRCULATION
EHC EHC
EIR E.I.R
EIS EQUIPMENT IMBALANCE SURCHARGE
EL EXTRA LENGTH
ELC ELECTRICITY
ELE ELECTRICITY
ELH EQUIPMENT/LABOUR HIRE
ELI ELECTRICITY
ELR EXTRA/LATE RECEIVAL COSTS
ELT ELECTRICITY
EMS E.R.C - EMERGENCY REVENUE CHARGE
EMT EMPTY RETURN
ENV ENVELOPES
EQI E.I.R
EQS EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT CHARGE
ERC EXTRA RECEIVAL COS
ERP EMPTY REPOSITIONING COSTS
ERS EMPTY RETURN SURVEY
ERT EMPTY RETURN SURVEY
ETC EQUIPMENT TRANSFER CHARGE
ETD ELECTRONIC DATA INTERCHANGE
ETE TRANSHIPMENT EXPENSES
ETP EMERG.TRANS.PART
ETR EQUIPMENT TRANSFER CHARGE
ETZ EQUIPMENT TRANSFER CHARGE
EUR EUR1 PREPARATION
EVA EVACUATION
EWD SHIPPERS FORWARDING
EWH EXPORT WHARFAGES
EWR INTERIM WAR RISK SURCHARGE
EXA CUSTOMS EXAMINATION
EXB ADDITIONAL CUSTOMS EXAMINATION
EXC EXCESS CONTAINER WEIGHT ASSESSMENT
EXD EXTRA DOC SET FEE
EXF EX. FACTORY COSTS
EXR EXTRA CHARGE ROMAN
EXT EXTRA MAN
EXW EXTRA WEIGHT
F01 FRAIS DOSSIER
F02 CONTR. PORTUAIRE
F03 DOUANE
F04 EMPOTAGE
F05 ENREGISTREMENT
F06 FRAIS DIVERS
F07 FRAIS PROTIS
F08 F. LIASSE
F09 ISE A DISPOSITION
F10 PEAGE A LA SORTIE
F11 RELEVAGE
F12 TRANSPORT
F13 MOUVEMENT SUR TERM
F14 ELECTRICITY
F15 ETABLISSEMENT T1
F16 FRAIS FIXE
F17 MANUTENTION SUR TE
F18 MISE A DISPOSITION
F19 PEAGE PORTUAIRE
F20 SURESTARIES
F21 ETABLISS. BL
F22 T.V.A.
F23 APUREMENT DOUANE
F24 VETERINARE INSPECTION
F25 SURRESTARIES (W/O VAT)
F26 TRANSPORTATION - LOCAL
FAC FORWARDING AGENTS CHARGE
FAF FUEL ADJUSTMENT FACTOR
FCA FIRST CARRIER
FCD FIOS COLLECTION DEPOSIT
FCL FULL CONT. LOAD SURCHARGE
FCR FCL ABATEMENT
FCT FACILITY CHARGE
FDG FOOD GRADE CONT. CHARGE
FDS 1ST DAY STORAGE
FEC PHOTO EXPENSES CHARGE
FF3 FREIGHT FORWARDER COMMISSION
FF4 FREIGHT FORWARDER COMMISSION
FF5 FREIGHT FORWARDER COMMISSION
FFC FREIGHT FORWARDER COMMISSION
FFF FREIGHT FORWARDER COMMISSION
FFI FREE IN FREE ZONE
FFL FREIGHT FORWARDER COMMISSION
FFZ FREE IN FREE ZONE
FGC FOOD GRADE CONT. CHARGE
FIC FREE-IN CHARGE
FIO FREE IN/OUT
FIS FISCAL REPRESENTATION
FIT FISCAL STAMPS
FLO FUEL SURCHARGE ON L/T -ORIG
FLT FUEL SURCHARGE ON L/T- DEST
FLX FLEXITANK SURCHARGE
FME FUMIGATION FEE
FNS FINE
FOB FOB CONTRIBUTION
FOC FREE-OUT CHARGE
FPF FACILITATION PROCESSING FEES
FPV FIRE PREVENTION CONTROL (VAT)
FRE FREE IN/OUT
FRF FREE OUT FREE ZONE
FRL FIRST RELEASE
FRO FREE IN/OUT
FRT OCEAN FREIGHT
FRX FRUSTRATED EXPORT
FRZ FREE OUT FREE ZONE
FS FUEL SURCHARGE
FSC FREIGHT SURCHARGE
FSR FUEL SURCHARGE
FSS FISCAL STAMPS
FTT FUTILE TRIP
FTX FREIGHT TAX SURCHARGE
FUF FUMIGATION FEE
FUM FUMIGATION
FUT FUTILE TRIP
GAH GOH CONTAINER CHARGE
GET GETASA
GIF GOVERNMENT INSPECTION
FEE
GIO GATE CHARGE
GLF LANDING FEE
GNS GENSET SERVICE
GOH GOH CONTAINER CHARGE
GOI GOVERNMENT INSPECTION FEE
GPO GREEK PORT OPERATION
GRB BANK GUARANTEE BOND
GRI GENERAL RATE INCREASE
GRR GROUND RENT
GST GENSET CHARGE
GTE GATE OUT
GTO GATE OUT
GTX GOODS AND SERVICES
GUT GUATEMALA TAX
GVA VAT (GHANA)
HAC HAZ ADDITIONAL CHARGE
HAD HAIFA/ASHDOD DIFFERENTIAL
HAL HAULAGE
HAZ HAZARDOUS ADDITION
HBL IMPORT HBL CHARGES
HCA HIGH CUBE ADDITIONAL
HCU CONT USE
HDE HANDLING DEPOT IN/OUT
HDP HANDLING DEPOT IN/OUT
HID HIDELINER
HL HEAVY LIFT
HMC CUSTOMS CLEARANCE FORMALITIES
HN HANDLING SURCHARGE
HND HANDLING FEES
HOG HOUSEHOLD GOODS AND/OR AUTO INTERMODAL CHARGE
HOS HOUSEHOLD GOODS AND/OR AUTO INTERMODAL
HRD HARBOUR DUES
HUL HAULAGE CHARGE
HZC HAZ ADDITIONAL CHARGE
HZR IMO REPORTING
IAC INTERMODAL ADMINISTRATIVE CHARGE
ICA WINTER (ICE) ADDITION
ICC IMO CARGO SURVEILLANCE
GRI GENERAL RATE INCREASE
GRR GROUND RENT
GST GENSET CHARGE
GTE GATE OUT
GTO GATE OUT
GTX GOODS AND SERVICES
GUT GUATEMALA TAX
GVA VAT (GHANA)
HAC HAZ ADDITIONAL CHARGE
HAD HAIFA/ASHDOD DIFFERENTIAL
HAL HAULAGE
HAZ HAZARDOUS ADDITION
HBL IMPORT HBL CHARGES
HCA HIGH CUBE ADDITIONAL