GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jul 18, 2026
Low Water Surcharge (LWS)
When water levels at reference gauges such as Kaub or Duisburg-Ruhrort fall below defined thresholds, inland waterway operators apply a Low Water Surcharge (LWS), also known in German-speaking markets as Kleinwasserzuschlag (KWZ).
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Source: https://www.contargo.net/en/business/auxiliary-conditions/low-water
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Definition & Explanation
When water levels at reference gauges such as Kaub or Duisburg-Ruhrort fall below defined thresholds, inland waterway operators apply a Low Water Surcharge (LWS), also known in German-speaking markets as Kleinwasserzuschlag (KWZ). The surcharge compensates for reduced vessel utilisation: with a reduced loading draught, an inland vessel can only take on part of its usual cargo, so more vessel capacity is needed to move the same volume of goods. The amount is tiered according to the water level and quoted per container or per tonne; on the Rhine, many tiers apply below roughly 150 centimetres at the Kaub gauge. For shippers, the surcharge represents hard-to-plan additional costs that can significantly increase the total freight rate for hinterland transport during pronounced low-water periods – up to a complete suspension of inland navigation and transshipment to rail or road. Not to be confused with the high water surcharge, which is applied when upper limit levels are exceeded and bridge clearance becomes restricted.
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