USTR port fees: what changed and what shippers must do now

USTR port

USTR port fees changed again, and shippers face higher costs and uncertainty. The revised USTR port fees alter how car carriers are charged and expand tariffs on cranes and equipment. However, unresolved payment logistics keep risks elevated for operators and cargo owners.

USTR port fees: the latest modifications

The USTR set foreign-built car carrier fees at $46 per net ton. It removed the LNG license suspension link and added a 100% tariff on certain ship-to-shore cranes. Meanwhile, additional tariffs up to 150% on handling equipment are under consultation. The agency may carve out ethane and LPG carriers under long charters. Vessels affected by proposed changes may defer payment until 10 December.

Key uncertainties and shipper actions

Critical operational questions remain unanswered before fees start on 14 October. Pay.gov still blocks foreign bank transfers, complicating compliance. Therefore, owners should align intermediaries and U.S. pay agents now. Shippers should evaluate exposure to USTR port fees across vessel classes and routes. As a result, procurement teams need contingency bids from non-impacted carriers. Trade tensions with China also continue to escalate. Beijing is preparing reciprocal port fees, raising the chance of disrupted rotations.

What this means for costs and contracts

The new net-ton model could lift car carrier costs on heavy sailings. Tariffs on cranes and cargo equipment may ripple into terminal charges. Consequently, ocean contracts should add surcharge caps and trigger clauses. Finance teams should budget for fee deferrals expiring in December. Insurers may reassess war and delay coverage as rhetoric intensifies. Above all, communicate early with terminals on equipment availability and gate flow.

Timeline and immediate checklist

Fees begin 14 October, with public comments still open. Set internal task owners for legal, treasury, and operations today. Verify bank rails for Pay.gov or appoint a U.S. collection agent. Map crane and equipment exposures at each port call. Finally, keep messaging ready for customers as USTR port fees evolve.

The Metalnomist Commentary

The U.S. is tightening port and equipment levers to steer supply chains, not just trade. Expect carriers to reprice lanes and re-time calls until payment mechanics and carve-outs stabilize. For cargo owners, flexible routings and contract protections will be the best hedge.