Hapag-Lloyd has introduced a US$250 per TEU reefer congestion surcharge at the Port of Tema in Ghana, citing congestion-related operational challenges.
The surcharge applies to refrigerated containers and is intended to help offset additional costs arising from congestion and associated delays at the port.
Reefer cargo requires continuous power supply and temperature-controlled handling while containers are stored or transferred through terminals. Congestion can therefore create additional operational requirements for carriers and terminal operators, particularly when refrigerated boxes remain at ports for longer periods.
The additional charge will increase transportation costs for shippers moving temperature-sensitive cargo through Tema. The impact is likely to be felt by exporters and importers of food products, fresh produce, pharmaceuticals and other temperature-controlled goods.
Tema is Ghana’s largest container gateway and an important maritime hub for trade in West Africa. Changes in port congestion and carrier charges can consequently affect cargo owners using the facility as part of regional supply chains.
For freight forwarders and shippers, the surcharge makes accurate cost planning increasingly important. Customers moving reefer containers may need to account for the additional US$250 per TEU when calculating total landed and logistics costs.
The latest measure highlights how port congestion can translate into additional carrier charges, particularly for specialised equipment such as refrigerated containers.
Hapag-Lloyd’s surcharge will add to the cost of reefer movements through Tema while the carrier and other supply-chain stakeholders manage the operational impact of congestion at the port.