What is BAF (Bunker Adjustment Factor) and how is it charged?
Quick answerBAF is a fuel-related surcharge on top of base ocean freight, typically USD 50–300 per container. It changes with bunker prices, usually monthly. LSS is a separate low-sulphur fuel surcharge. When comparing quotes, ask "is BAF included and at what level" — a low base rate with a high BAF is not a low rate.
How it works
Carriers publish BAF tables by lane and equipment type, reviewed monthly or quarterly.
It is added to the base rate rather than absorbed, so total cost moves with oil prices.
Some quotes are "all-in" and already include BAF — always confirm.
Related surcharges
LSS: low-sulphur fuel surcharge under IMO 2020 rules.
PSS: peak season surcharge, temporary and demand-driven.
GRI: general rate increase, applied to the base rate itself.
| Surcharge | Driver | Typical amount |
|---|---|---|
| BAF | bunker price | USD 50–300/box |
| LSS | low-sulphur fuel | USD 30–150/box |
| PSS | peak season | USD 100–600/box |
| GRI | carrier rate increase | USD 200–1,000/box |
Frequently asked questions
- Does BAF apply to LCL?
- Yes, but it is usually built into the per-RT LCL rate rather than shown separately.
- Can BAF be locked?
- Some contracts fix BAF for a period; spot bookings are exposed to monthly adjustments.
Need a live rate for your lane? Search free on jhz56.com — 20GP / 40GP / 40HQ quotes from multiple forwarders, no sign-up required.
Related
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qa/peak season surcharge
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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.