Understanding Dockage Charges in the Shipping Industry

Dockage is a term used in the shipping industry to describe the cost of loading and unloading cargo at a port or terminal. It includes the fees charged by the port authority or stevedore for services such as handling, storage, and transportation of goods.

Dockage can include a variety of charges, such as:

1. Wharfage: The fee charged for using the port's facilities, including the wharf or dock.
2. Cargo handling charges: The cost of loading and unloading cargo, including the use of cranes, forklifts, and other equipment.
3. Storage fees: The cost of storing cargo at the port before or after it is loaded or unloaded.
4. Transportation costs: The cost of moving cargo within the port, such as by truck or train.
5. Other charges: Additional fees may be charged for services such as customs clearance, inspection, and security.

Dockage can vary depending on the type of cargo, the size of the vessel, and the location of the port. It is typically calculated based on the weight or volume of the cargo, and can range from a few dollars per ton to several hundred dollars per container.