Definition
An administrative charge for issuing and processing shipping documents such as the bill of lading.
The documentation fee covers the carrier’s or forwarder’s work of preparing, issuing, and transmitting transport documents — most visibly the bill of lading or waybill — along with associated data entry and amendments.
It is a standard local charge at origin and sometimes destination, separate from terminal handling and security fees. Amendments, switch bills, and late changes can attract additional fees, so getting documentation right the first time keeps costs down.
Related terms
Bill of Lading (B/L)
The carrier’s document that acts as a receipt for cargo, a contract of carriage, and a document of title.
Terminal Handling Charge (THC)
A fee charged by the port terminal for handling a container between the vessel and the yard.
ISPS Charge
A security surcharge funding port and vessel measures required under the international ISPS Code.
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