When a South Australian importer received an unexpected invoice of $2,149 AUD for Adelaide port charges for a small LCL shipment from China, they knew something wasn’t right. That’s when they turned to Platinum Freight Management® for expert support.
At Platinum Freight®, we specialise in helping importers identify and challenge excessive freight and port charges, ensuring that they only pay what’s fair and accurate.
The Challenge
Sally, an Adelaide-based importer, arranged an LCL (Less than Container Load) shipment of new excavator parts from Shanghai to Port Adelaide.
Shortly after the cargo arrived, the freight forwarder who was in charge of collecting the FCL from Port Adelaide, taking the FCL to their unpack depot, and deconsolidating the FCL, issued her an invoice for $2,149 AUD in Adelaide port charges, an unusually high amount considering that the cargo was only 4 cubic metres of cargo.
Confused and concerned about the fairness of these charges, Sally sought professional guidance from Platinum Freight Management®.
Overcharges like this occur more often than not, due to the Chinese supplier not disclosing these charges at the time of purchase. The Chinese supplier tends not to want to discuss destination port charges, as they do not want the purchaser to walk away from the proposed order. Australian importers tend to find out about destination port charges about one week before arrival. By this stage, the Australian importer has already paid the Chinese supplier 100% for the goods and shipping.
The Australian importer is caught off guard by these destination port charges, as port charges tend to be unspoken. As port charges are generally emailed to the importer about one week before arrival, there is not much time to dispute the charges. Australian importers tend to say, ‘Oh, well I have learned a lesson’, Platinum’s view is that ‘no, these exorbitant charges are unfair and predatory, and let’s attempt to have them reduced’.
Our Approach
Platinum Freight Management® immediately stepped in to investigate. Our licensed customs clearance team conducted a thorough review of the import documentation, contacted the Chinese supplier and the Australian freight forwarder and requested a $1000 AUD reduction.
We were able to quickly identify the overcharge, which was not in line with market rates, and especially that the cargo was only 4 cubic metres (m3).
Within two business days, we successfully negotiated a credit adjustment of $500 AUD, reducing the invoice by a great deal. This ensured that Sally could proceed to have the goods customs released within a good time to avoid the impending storage dates.
The Outcome
The issue was resolved swiftly and professionally, saving Sally from paying unnecessary costs. She gained peace of mind knowing that her shipment was handled correctly and fairly.
This case highlights why importers trust Platinum Freight®, not just for customs clearance and compliance, but also as a reliable advocate when unexpected costs arise.
At Platinum®, our mission is to make international trade transparent, compliant, and stress-free, empowering Australian businesses to focus on their customers and growth.
What Importers Can Learn
Unexpected port or handling fees can be frustrating, but they are not always final.
Here’s how importers can protect themselves:
- Review all charges carefully: Before any money is paid to overseas suppliers, Australian importers should reach out to Platinum® to receive a transparent quote; this quote will address all of the charges that others will not discuss.
- Engage a licensed customs broker: Once you are fully aware of the charges, connect with a professional customs broker like Platinum® who will ‘have your back’ and who will advocate for you. Your Platinum® customs broker will review all of your documentation before the goods depart from overseas.
- Act quickly: Any disputes that arise over port fees need to be resolved within 1-2 business days to avoid storage issues.
At Platinum Freight Management®, we stand by our clients at every stage of the import journey, from pre-purchasing to documentation through to dispute resolution.
Facing Unexpected Port or Handling Fees?
If you have received an invoice that doesn’t seem right, talk to Platinum® before paying the invoice.
Our experienced customs brokers will review your paperwork, explain your options, and help ensure that your import process is fair, compliant, and cost-effective.
FAQ Section
What are typical port charges for LCL shipments?
Port charges vary depending on the shipment, the volume, origin, destination, and handling agent. For small LCL shipments, fees should align with the cargo’s cubic metres and kilograms and align with the standard industry rates.
Can I dispute destination port charges and handling fees?
Yes, importers can dispute destination port charges if they appear inflated or inconsistent. A licensed customs broker like Platinum® can spot irregularities within seconds.
How can a customs broker help with port fees?
Customs brokers like Platinum® see paperwork hundreds of times in a week; we know what is standard and what is a ‘rip off’. We audit freight documentation, identify discrepancies, and liaise with both your overseas supplier and Australian freight forwarder to resolve the overcharges, ensuring fair and accurate billing.