What is a peak season surcharge (PSS)?
Quick answerPSS appears when demand spikes: Jul–Oct (US/Europe holiday stocking) and Dec–Jan (pre-CNY rush). Typical amount USD 100–600 per container, sometimes higher on trans-Pacific. It is temporary but is not automatically removed — ask for the removal date when booking.
Peak calendar
Jul–Oct: holiday inventory for the US and Europe.
Dec–Jan: Chinese factories ship before the New Year shutdown.
Some lanes see smaller spikes around Ramadan or regional holidays.
Managing the cost
Lock rates and space earlier; PSS often follows GRI.
Ask whether the quote includes PSS and whether it can be waived for volume commitments.
Consider shifting a portion of the volume to rail or air if the PSS exceeds the value of the delay.
| Period | Lane focus | Pressure |
|---|---|---|
| Jul–Oct | US / Europe | highest |
| Dec–Jan | all main lanes | highest |
| Ramadan / regional | Middle East | localised |
Frequently asked questions
- Is PSS refundable?
- No, but if it is withdrawn before your cargo sails you may be able to re-rate; ask.
- Does PSS apply to LCL?
- Usually absorbed into the per-RT rate rather than billed separately.
Need a live rate for your lane? Search free on jhz56.com — 20GP / 40GP / 40HQ quotes from multiple forwarders, no sign-up required.
Related
qa/what is baf surcharge
qa/what is rollover
Rates from China to all countries
Weekly China export freight index
Source: Juhe Zhuang rate platform (jhz56.com) market data and carrier documentation. Figures are reference ranges, not transaction prices; verify with your forwarder before booking.