What Are Miscellaneous Air Freight Port of Destination Charges?

In international air freight, do you focus solely on the "air freight" fee, often overlooking the numerous miscellaneous charges that may be incurred at the destination airport? These fees may seem trivial, but cumulatively they can significantly increase overall transportation costs and even cause shipment delays.

As an international air freight service provider, Chinadivision understands these pain points and is committed to helping B2B businesses and e-commerce sellers gain transparency into their fee structures and optimize supply chain costs. This article will detail the components of miscellaneous air freight charges, answer common questions, and provide practical solutions to help you easily navigate the challenges of international air freight.

What are miscellaneous air freight charges?

Miserable air freight charges are a series of handling and processing fees levied by the airport, cargo terminal, or local agent upon arrival of cargo at the destination airport. These charges are separate from the basic air freight rate and are generally borne by the consignee, but the specific charges vary depending on the trade terms (e.g., FOB, CIF, etc.). Ignoring these miscellaneous charges can lead to unexpected costs and delays in picking up your cargo.

What are the common miscellaneous charges at the destination airport?

Based on the latest IATA rate standards for 2025 and practical examples, miscellaneous charges at the destination airport can be divided into four main categories:

1. Basic Operations (Required)

Airport Handling Charge (AHC)

This covers basic services such as cargo sorting, security screening, loading and unloading, and is charged by chargeable weight.

Terminal Handling Charge (THC)

This is a cargo handling fee charged by the cargo terminal, including sorting and temporary storage. It covers drayage from the cargo terminal to the apron, forklift operations, and other services. On European and American routes, this fee is generally charged by ticket, while on Southeast Asian routes, it is often charged by weight.

Unloading & Sorting Fee

This fee is charged for unloading and sorting cargo from the aircraft, usually by weight or volume. Special handling fees for oversized/overweight cargo (units > 3 meters or > 150 kg) range from 500-2000 RMB per piece on European and American routes, and up to 3000 RMB per piece on Middle Eastern routes.

2. Storage and Documentation (High-Risk Items)

Storage Charge

If cargo is not picked up promptly, the airport may charge a daily storage fee. This is particularly important for e-commerce sellers, as delayed pickup increases costs. The free storage period is typically 48-72 hours; after this period, a fee of 0.8-1.5 RMB per kg per day will be charged.

Documentation and Administration Fee

This includes bill of lading supplements, AMS/ENS declarations, and other services. The standard fee is 250-500 RMB per shipment. Please note: bill of lading changes at the destination port may incur additional fees (for example, bill of lading changes on US routes can be as high as 800 RMB per change). 

3. Special Scenarios (Emergency Items)

Express Delivery Surcharge

If expedited delivery is requested, the airport or agent may charge an additional fee. Delivery during non-business hours or holidays is subject to a surcharge of 150%-200% of the normal handling rate.

Holiday Surcharge

This surcharge is incurred when handling goods during holidays or non-business hours. This covers labor costs during long holidays like Christmas and Spring Festival, and the rate is typically 50%-100% of the normal handling rate. Companies are advised to plan delivery dates in advance to avoid peak periods.

4. Specialty Cargo (Specialty Items)

Dangerous Goods Surcharge

This surcharge applies to dangerous goods, fragile goods, or temperature-controlled goods that require additional equipment and handling. Goods such as batteries and liquids must be declared separately, and the rate is 20-50 yuan/kg (minimum charge 400 yuan/shipment). Temperature Control Fee

Goods requiring constant temperature storage, such as pharmaceuticals and food, can incur costs 3-5 times higher than regular warehousing.

These fees vary by country and region. For example, storage fees at European and American airports may be higher, while emerging markets may have more hidden fees.

Who bears the cost of airport charges at the destination port?

According to INCOTERMS 2020 and industry practices, the following rules govern the allocation of fees:

Seller's Fee: If DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) or DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid) is used, the seller is responsible for all port charges.

Buyer's Fee: If FOB, CFR, or CIF terms are used, the buyer is responsible for all port charges.

Special Agreements: The parties may agree on cost sharing through a supplementary agreement, such as "seller bears unloading fees, buyer bears storage fees."

For e-commerce sample orders, high-value consumer goods, and fast-moving consumer goods, it is best to sign a DAP and lock in local charges at once to avoid consignees abandoning their goods due to "expensive bills." Liability Transfer in Special Situations

When the consignee abandons the goods: the shipper is responsible for storage fees, destruction fees, etc. (up to 200% of the goods' value).

Inspection due to incorrect declaration: the declarant bears the inspection fees (usually 1,500-3,000 yuan per incident).

Disclaimer Clauses in Service Contracts

It is recommended that companies clearly specify the following when signing contracts:

Fee exemptions due to force majeure

Limited compensation for freight forwarder operational errors

Mechanisms for resolving cost disputes (such as arbitration clauses).

How to avoid or reduce these costs?

The key to reducing port of destination charges lies in advance planning and professional services:

Choosing a reliable service provider

Chinadivision has long-term partnerships with airports and freight forwarders worldwide, leveraging economies of scale to secure discounted rates for clients and reduce charge costs.

Optimize Packaging and Declaration

Accurately declare cargo information and weight to avoid additional fees (such as re-measurement fees) due to errors. We provide packaging guidance to help minimize dimensional weight. Use compliant packaging to minimize damage and clearly mark the HS code and shipping mark to avoid customs clearance delays.

Avoid storage fees

Arrange timely pickup and customs clearance. Chinadivision's tracking system provides real-time updates, ensuring you're always on top of your shipment's progress and preventing delays.

Bundled Services

Choose our door-to-door service to bundle air freight and miscellaneous fees into a fixed price, eliminating hidden costs. This is especially beneficial for e-commerce sellers, simplifying budget management.

Off-Season Shipping

Avoid peak periods like the European and American Christmas season (September-December) to reduce freight costs by 20%-30%.

Integrate Logistics Channels

Lower unit costs through LCL or FCL shipping. For example, combining 10 small shipments into one can save 15% in handling fees.

FAQs and In-Depth Answers

Why are miscellaneous fees at the destination port sometimes higher than air freight rates?

This often occurs at airports with high handling costs (such as European and American hubs), or when cargo is held up, leading to accumulating storage fees. Chinadivision helps customers avoid these situations with pre-audited fees and fast-track services.

How can e-commerce sellers cope with increased miscellaneous fees during peak season?

During peak season, airports may impose holiday handling fees. We recommend booking in advance and utilizing Chinadivision's Peak Season Guarantee program to lock in rates and ensure priority handling.

Are destination charges included in the air freight rate?

No. Air freight rates typically only cover transportation between airports. Destination charges are charged separately and must be paid locally.

How can Chinadivision help you with airport miscellaneous fees?

Chinadivision has many years of international air freight experience, serving major airports worldwide. We not only offer competitive air freight rates but also focus on optimizing the entire supply chain:

Transparent costs: No hidden costs, all miscellaneous fees are disclosed upfront, allowing you to budget more accurately.

Efficient operations: Our automated system reduces human error and expedites customs clearance and pickup.

Customized solutions: For B2B businesses and e-commerce sellers, we offer flexible services such as volume discounts and dedicated e-commerce lines.

24/7 support: Our dedicated team is available to answer questions, handle emergencies, and ensure on-time delivery of your shipments.

If you have any questions about destination airport miscellaneous fees or would like to optimize your international air freight costs, please contact Chinadivision! Our experts will provide free consultation and quotes to help you expand into the global market with ease. Visit our website or call customer service today to experience reliable and efficient international air freight services.

With Chinadivision, international air freight becomes simpler and more economical!