Origin charges are fees incurred before or while cargo is handed over for its main international transport leg. They are separate from base freight unless the quotation expressly includes them.
Which charges may be included?
Examples include pickup, export handling, terminal charges, documentation, security, consolidation, customs clearance and container-related fees.
Who pays origin charges?
Responsibility depends on the sale contract, Incoterm and freight quotation. The seller may arrange some services while the buyer bears the economic cost, or vice versa.
How should quotes be compared?
Use identical cargo, route, Incoterm and cut-offs, then compare each origin line rather than only the main freight rate.
Illustrative origin-cost total
| Charge | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Pickup | $300 | Factory to terminal |
| Terminal handling | $240 | Origin terminal service |
| Documentation | $85 | Transport documents |
| Export clearance | $175 | Broker filing |
| Total | $800 | Before main freight |
What should be documented?
Record provider, currency, tax, tariff basis, payer, included services and whether a charge arose from the planned shipment or an exception.
