Maersk Implements Peak Season Surcharge for Asia to Southern Africa Shipments

Global shipping giant Maersk is set to implement a Peak Season Surcharge (PSS) on cargo originating from several Asian countries and destined for Southern Africa and Mauritius, effective April 1, 2026. This surcharge aims to manage increased operational costs during a period of high demand.

Affected Origins and Destinations

The surcharge applies to shipments from China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam. Destinations include South Africa and Mauritius [Maersk].

Surcharge Amounts

The surcharge rates vary depending on the container size:

• 20-foot dry container: $500 USD
• 40-foot dry container: $1000 USD

These rates apply to non-SPOT bookings and are based on the Price Calculation Date (PCD) [Maersk], [News USA Today].

Price Calculation Date (PCD)

The PCD differs based on whether the shipment is subject to Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) regulations:

• Non-FMC regulated shipments: PCD is the scheduled departure date of the first leg of the journey.
• FMC-regulated shipments: PCD is the last container gate-in date.

SPOT Bookings Exempt

The PSS does not apply to SPOT bookings [Maersk], [News USA Today].

Payment Terms

Maersk will collect the surcharge alongside freight payments [Maersk].

Additional Destinations

Maersk will similarly implement a PSS for cargo from Far East Asia to destinations including Mozambique, Madagascar, Seychelles, and other Southern African markets [Container News].

Customers with questions are encouraged to contact Maersk representatives through Maersk.com.