Glossary

Heavy Weight Surcharge (HWS)

Definition

Heavy Weight Surcharge (HWS) is an additional fee charged by shipping lines, carriers, or freight forwarders when transporting a container that exceeds a certain weight limit. The surcharge is applied to cover the extra costs and risks associated with handling and transporting heavier containers, such as increased fuel consumption, wear and tear on equipment, and potential safety hazards.

— sennder Team

FAQ

The Heavy Weight Surcharge is applied when a container's weight, including both the cargo and the container itself, exceeds a specified limit set by the shipping line or carrier. The weight limit may vary depending on the carrier, shipping line, and the mode of transport used (e.g., road, rail, or sea).
The HWS is usually calculated as a flat fee per container or as a percentage of the freight rate, depending on the carrier or shipping line's policy. It may also be influenced by factors such as the route, destination, and the type of container used.
To avoid or minimize the HWS, shippers can ensure that their cargo is packed and distributed evenly within the container, avoiding overloading. Additionally, shippers can work with their freight forwarder or carrier to explore alternative shipping options, such as using multiple containers or different shipping modes, to stay within the weight limits.
While there are no specific regulations governing the HWS, there are international and national regulations governing the weight limits for different modes of transport, such as road, rail, and sea. Shipping lines and carriers must comply with these regulations to ensure the safe and efficient transportation of cargo.
Example or usage in road freight logistics

A company ships a container of heavy machinery from Europe to Asia. The combined weight of the cargo and the container exceeds the carrier's weight limit, resulting in the application of a Heavy Weight Surcharge. To avoid the HWS, the company works with its freight forwarder to distribute the cargo more evenly across multiple containers, ensuring that none of them exceed the weight limit.

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