Regional Container Lines (RCL) has introduced a US$450 per-box Port Congestion Surcharge (PCS) on all import shipments bound for Khor Fakkan in the United Arab Emirates, citing severe congestion and prolonged vessel waiting times at the port.
RCL said vessels are currently facing waiting times of more than seven days at Khor Fakkan . The delays have increased operating costs and affected berth availability, prompting the carrier to introduce the surcharge to help offset additional expenses and maintain service continuity.
The surcharge applies to cargo arriving from all export origins with Khor Fakkan (AEKLF) as the port of discharge. It covers 20-foot and 40-foot dry containers, 40-foot high-cube containers, reefer boxes, dangerous goods, special equipment and out-of-gauge cargo.
The charge also applies to both carrier-owned containers (COC) and shipper-owned containers (SOC). Cargo that has already been picked up, gated in or is currently on the water aboard the affected vessels will also be subject to the surcharge.
The affected voyages include VIRA BHUM 147W, HIRANYA BHUM 014W, KMTC MUMBAI 2605W and HUNSA BHUM 025W. The US$450 charge will be collected at the port of discharge and must be paid by the consignee before cargo release.
The PCS will apply in addition to existing base freight rates, fuel-related adjustments and standard terminal handling charges. RCL said it will continue monitoring conditions at Khor Fakkan and work to minimise disruption to its liner services.
The move highlights the continuing impact of port congestion on regional container shipping, with prolonged berth delays adding costs for carriers, importers and consignees.