GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 23, 2026
Agency Fee
Where freight charges cover the physical movement of goods, the agency fee compensates a freight agent or customs broker for acting as intermediary.
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Definition & Explanation
Where freight charges cover the physical movement of goods, the agency fee compensates a freight agent or customs broker for acting as intermediary. It applies to administrative and coordination work: carrier booking, preparation and procurement of transport documents such as a bill of lading, air waybill, or customs entry, clearance handling, and liaison with shipping lines, airlines, or authorities. The fee is typically invoiced as a flat rate per shipment or as a percentage of the freight charges, appearing as a separate line item on the invoice. It represents a fixed administrative cost in the relationship between agent and principal, regardless of which carrier is ultimately engaged.
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