# Congestion surcharge

*Last updated: 2026-06-22*

> Congestion at a port or logistics hub translates directly into idle time for carriers – and that cost is passed on to shippers as a congestion surcharge.

Congestion at a port or logistics hub translates directly into idle time for carriers – and that cost is passed on to shippers as a congestion surcharge. This variable levy is applied by shipping lines or hauliers when vessels, trucks, or containers are held up at a bottleneck while crew wages, equipment costs, and port fees continue to accrue. Triggers include labour strikes, severe weather, or chronic terminal overcapacity. The surcharge is generally not included in the base freight rate and is invoiced separately, often after the shipment has moved. It differs from demurrage and detention charges, which relate specifically to the over-use of container equipment beyond the contractually agreed free time.

**Source:** [https://www.logistra.de/News/Branchenthemen/Stauzuschlag-muss-umgelegt-werden-192269.html](https://www.logistra.de/News/Branchenthemen/Stauzuschlag-muss-umgelegt-werden-192269.html)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Congestion surcharge |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 112 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-22 |
| Source | https://www.logistra.de/News/Branchenthemen/Stauzuschlag-muss-umgelegt-werden-192269.html |

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*Logistics Glossary — Freight Academy: [https://www.freight-academy.com/en/glossary/congestion-surcharge](https://www.freight-academy.com/en/glossary/congestion-surcharge)*

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