The MaritimeWhat items are included in basic agency fees?

In 2025, basic quotes for import/export shipping agencies typically include the following 6 core elements:

• Basic oceanTransportation expenses: Calculated by FCL or LCL, Asia-Europe route 20GP container approximately $800-$1200 in Q2 2025
• The FuelAdditional fees(BAF): Adjusted dynamically according to IMO low-sulfur fuel policy, currently accounting for 10-18% of freight
• Supplementary Seasonal Fees (PSS): Generally $300-$800/container additional charge on Europe-America routes during Q3-Q4 annually
• Port security fee: Includes fixed charges like ISPS, CTF, ranging $15-$35 per port
• Cost of Document Processing: Covers document preparation such as B/L and customs declaration, standard fee $30-$50/shipment
• Equipment management fee:The containerUsage-related fees, with an additional smart container tracking service fee of $5/day starting from 2025

What new changes will occur in 2025 shipping surcharges?

Affected by new IMO regulations, special attention should be paid to 3 types of additional fees in 2025:

• Carbon emission surcharge (CEF): EU carbon border tax extended to shipping sector, expected to increase freight costs by 3-5%
• Smart container deposit: IoT device deposit $200/container, refundable subject to equipment integrity rate
• Green channel fees: 5% BAF reduction available for biofuel-powered vessels but requires $50 environmental certification fee

How to determine whether the agency’s offer is reasonable?

It is recommended to adopt the "three-comparison" verification method:

• Market benchmark price comparison: Reference the weekly route indices published by Baltic Exchange
• Cost breakdown verification:
  • Require original carrier quotation
  • Verify supporting documents for surcharges
• Hidden cost investigation: Pay special attention to potential expense clauses like demurrage and amendment fees

What factors may cause sudden price increases?

According to 2024 industry data, the following emergencies most likely cause price fluctuations:

• Geopolitical events: During Red Sea crisis, Asia-Europe route freight rates surged by 240%
• Extreme weather impacts: Panama Canal drought once caused $500/container low water surcharge on US East Coast routes
• Vessel schedule adjustments: Blank sailing resulted in average $150/container transshipment fee increase

How much price discount can long-term clients obtain?

Legitimate agents typically offer tiered discounts:

• Annual volume exceeding 100TEU: Eligible for contract rates, 8-12% lower than spot prices
• Quarterly prepayment plan: Hedge against freight rate volatility, mainstream agents accept 3-month freight rate options in 2025
• Mixed loading discount: 3% consolidation discount available when combining ocean+rail/air services

How to avoid low-price traps?

Recommended to focus on verifying 3 key points:

• Registration qualification verification: Verify the validity of NVOCC license and FIATA membership credentials
• Coverage of insurance: Compliant agents must carry minimum $75,000 liability insurance
• Fee transparency level: Refuse to accept the "all-inclusive price" and demand a detailed breakdown of the quotation by individual items.