What is a Peak Season Surcharge (PSS)?
A Peak Season Surcharge (PSS) is an additional fee imposed by carriers during periods of high demand, typically aligned with global shipping “peak seasons.” These surcharges help carriers offset increased operating costs and maximize profitability when space is tight and volumes surge.
Peak Season Surcharge is most commonly applied in container shipping and air freight, particularly on Asia-to-U.S. and Asia-to-Europe trade lanes.
When Does PSS Apply?
Peak Season Surcharge is usually charged during:
- August to October (pre-holiday retail rush)
- Before Chinese New Year (January–February)
- Sudden demand spikes, supply chain disruptions, or capacity shortages
Who Sets the Surcharge?
Ocean carriers and airlines set their own PSS amounts, which may vary by:
- Origin and destination ports
- Container type (e.g., 20’, 40’, reefer)
- Commodity type or contract terms
Example in Practice
A U.S. importer shipping goods from Shenzhen to Los Angeles in September may face a $300–$1,000 PSS per container, depending on carrier and route, on top of base ocean freight rates.
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