What items are included in the basic charges of a freight forwarder?

According to the latest 2025 industry data, the basic export charges of a licensed freight forwarder typically include:

• Sea送料: PressコンテナBasic freight charges collected by container type (20GP/40HQ, etc.)
• 通関Service fee: The customs declaration fee for a single shipment is approximately 200–800 RMB (may increase for special goods)
• Document processing fee: Including bill of lading fees, manifest entry, etc., averaging RMB 300–600 per shipment
• Port handling charge: THC (Terminal Handling Charge) approximately 500–1,200 RMB per container
• Insurance premium: 0.1%–0.3% of the cargo value (the insured percentage can be chosen freely)

Why do quotes for the same route vary so much?

Recently, a國際物流According to the association’s research, the three core factors affecting freight forwarder quotations in 2025 are:

• Fuel追加料金fluctuation: BAF surcharge adjusted monthly in response to international crude oil prices
• Peak Season Surcharge: PSS surcharge commonly levied during the Q3/Q4 peak shipping season
• Special Service Requirements：
  • An additional 15–25% surcharge for cold-chain transportation
  • Hazardous cargo subject to an additional 30–50% surcharge
  • Expedited customs clearance service fee doubled

How to Identify Hidden Fee Traps?

Based on 20 years of industry experience, special attention is advised for the following three types of hidden fees:

• Transfer of Destination Charges: Some freight forwarders will shift destination charges such as DTHC to the shipper.
• Currency conversion fee: Quoted in USD but settled in RMB at the real-time exchange rate
• Amendment fee: Bill of lading amendments may incur a fee of 500–2,000 RMB per occurrence.

How can overall transportation costs be reduced?

3 methods proven effective by 2025 industry practice:

• LCL Consolidation Optimization Strategy: Consolidating three cubic meters can reduce the LCL consolidation unit price by 30%.
• Route Combination Selection: Middle East routes via Singapore transshipment save 12–18% on freight costs
• Long-term agreement discount: Annual shipments exceeding 100 TEU qualify for negotiable tiered freight discounts

What impact does digitalization have on freight forwarders' charges?

According to the International Shipping Association's 2025 White Paper, new technologies are driving two major transformations:

• Electronic document fee waiver: Using blockchain-based bills of lading can cut document-processing costs by 75%.
• Dynamic Pricing System: AI algorithms can calculate optimal route combination quotes in real time

3 Fee Details You Must Confirm When Choosing a Freight Forwarder

• Scope of Included Fees: Clearly specify whether the lead-sealing fee, terminal security fee, etc. are included.
• Exchange Rate Lock Mechanism: The USD quotation must specify the exchange rate benchmark date for settlement.
• Rebate Clause: Refunds for the AMS filing fee are available on select routes.