What is a terminal service fee?

Terminal Handling Charges, commonly abbreviated as THC, are synonymous with Container Service Charges (CSC). These fees are levied by shipping terminals for specific services rendered before containers are loaded onto a vessel.

The THC encompass a range of activities that facilitate the smooth and efficient handling of containers. These include the initial handling of goods upon their arrival at the terminal, ensuring they are safely moved and stored.

Unloading the container from the incoming transport mode, such as a truck or train, is a crucial step in the THC process. This ensures the container's contents are accessible for further handling or storage.

After unloading, the containers undergo stacking, a strategic process where they are arranged in a manner that optimizes space utilization and facilitates quick retrieval. This step is integral to maintaining the terminal's operational efficiency.

Crane services are also a vital component of THC. Cranes are used to lift and move containers between various locations within the terminal, including from storage areas to the vessel's loading bay. Their precision and speed are essential for timely departures.