PSS
Peak Season Surcharge
PSS is a temporary surcharge that carriers add when demand for space is high, for example before major holidays or in the busiest shipping months.
In plain words
When many shippers want space on the same ships at the same time, carriers may add a PSS on top of the base freight. They usually announce it in advance, with a start date and the trade lanes it applies to.
A PSS is meant to be temporary. It may be removed, reduced or postponed when the market calms down. Because it can start after you receive a quote, ask whether the quote includes any PSS and until which date the price is valid.
Example from real shipping
A shipper receives a quote in early summer for a container shipped in autumn. The quote does not mention PSS. Before booking, the shipper asks the carrier and learns that a PSS has been announced for the same weeks. The shipper books earlier to avoid it.
Related terms
- GRIA GRI is a freight rate increase that carriers announce for a future date and apply across a whole trade lane.
- BAFBAF is a surcharge on sea freight that covers changes in the price of ship fuel (called bunker).
- THCTHC is a charge for handling a container at the port terminal, for example lifting it on or off the ship and moving it in the yard.
- Landed costLanded cost is the total cost of getting a product to your door: the price of the goods plus freight, insurance, duties, taxes, and all other fees on the way.
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Request a QuoteThis glossary is general information, not legal or customs advice. Rules, fees, and practice can differ by carrier, port, and country.