Port-to-port shipping container costs include expenses associated with transporting goods from the port of origin to the destination port. The costs usually include the ocean freight rate( the rate at which the cargo is to be transported) and a container rental fee (which pays for the rental of the shipping container for the duration of the transportation process). Also included is a security fee that ports impose for reasons of maritime security. Additional port-to-port services include container loading and unloading times, cargo tracking, document issuance (such as a Bill of Lading), and document filing costs. There may be additional fees for handling at either the country of origin or the country of destination.

Factors to Consider With Port-to-Port Shipping

Cargo Insurance

Port-to-port shipping does not include cargo insurance. Carriers are mandated by law to have carrier liability insurance for all cargo they transport. However, this insurance seldom offers enough compensation for losses incurred by shippers.

Customs Clearance

Customs officials at the port of origin and destination must receive proper documentation and papers. In most cases, this step is not covered by port-to-port shipping container costs. The documentation requirements might be very different in each nation. Hiring a destination agent will help clear up any misunderstandings or miscommunications that may arise. An experienced destination agent will be well-versed in the import regulations of your final destination and can guide you through the necessary paperwork and provide an estimate of the taxes and duties you will owe.

Inland Transportation

You will need to make arrangements for inland transportation to get your shipment to and from the ports of loading and discharge, respectively. The specifics of these arrangements will depend on your consignment’s origin location and final delivery destination.

These may comprise rail services, trucking services, or a mix of the two. Because of the current truck driver scarcity, it is essential to prepare ahead if you need to arrange inland transportation in the U.S.

Port Schedule

Without pre-carriage or on-carriage services, you’ll be responsible for getting your shipment to the port on time for the sail date and picking it up from the port of origin as soon as possible once it arrives to avoid fees like demurrage. While planning your drop-off and pickup, double-check the port authority’s operating hours to avoid delays. You should be aware of the port’s working hours and any holidays and/or strikes that may affect port employees.

Local Charges

In most cases, port-to-port shipping costs do not include local fees like the Bill of Lading release fee, associated port taxes, wharfage, etc. Nevertheless, as previously stated, some port-to-port quotes may contain local handling charges at the port of origin and/or destination.