Wharfage
Wharfage is a charge levied by a port authority or terminal for cargo passing over, or being handled at, its wharf or quay. It is assessed on the goods (typically per tonne, per container or by value) for the use of the port's waterfront infrastructure, separate from charges for the ship itself such as berthage and port dues.
Wharfage is one of a family of port and terminal charges — alongside terminal handling charges (THC), berthage, storage and demurrage — that make up the cost of a port call and appear in freight and landed-cost calculations. It is usually payable regardless of whether the port provides the actual handling labour, being a charge for the cargo's use of the wharf. Understanding wharfage and the wider tariff of port charges is important for accurately costing shipments.
Port charges quietly add up, and wharfage is one that catches shippers out because it is levied on the cargo simply for crossing the wharf. Knowing what wharfage, THC, berthage and storage each cover is what lets a forwarder or importer cost a shipment accurately instead of being surprised by the port's tariff.
What is wharfage charged on?
On the cargo for using the port's wharf — usually per tonne, per container or by value — separate from charges on the ship.
Is wharfage the same as terminal handling charge?
No — wharfage is for the cargo's use of the wharf; THC covers the actual handling of the container at the terminal.