What Are Chassis Fees in Shipping?
Chassis fees are charges incurred when using a chassis—the wheeled frame used to transport ocean containers over the road. These fees apply when cargo is moved inland from a port or rail terminal by truck and a chassis is provided by a trucking company, port pool, or third-party equipment provider.
While often overlooked in shipping quotes, chassis fees can significantly impact total landed costs, especially for importers, exporters, and freight forwarders operating in high-volume or congested markets.
Why Are Chassis Fees Charged?
Chassis were historically supplied by steamship lines at no direct cost, but over the past decade, many carriers have divested their chassis fleets, shifting responsibility to chassis pools, leasing companies, and truckers. As a result, fees are now passed along to shippers for:
- Daily or per-use rental of the chassis
- Extended use or detention beyond free time
- Shortages or surcharges in congested regions
Common Types of Chassis Fees
- Daily Rental Fee: A flat daily charge (e.g., $30–$50/day) for each day the chassis is in use
- Flip Fee: A charge (typically $25–$100) when a container must be repositioned onto another chassis
- Chassis Split Fee: When a chassis must be sourced from a different location than the container pickup point
- Detention (Per Diem) Fee: Fees for holding the chassis beyond the allowed free time—often $25–$75/day
- Premium Location Surcharge: Additional charges in ports with tight chassis availability (e.g., NY/NJ, LA/LB)
Example in Practice
A container of furniture arrives at the Port of Savannah. The trucker picks it up for final delivery, but due to a chassis shortage at the terminal, a chassis split is required from a nearby depot—adding a $95 fee. The container is then held on the chassis for four days, triggering $40/day in detention fees. Total unexpected chassis fees: $255.
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