A disbursement service fee is a charge applied when a logistics provider, carrier, courier, or customs broker pays duties, taxes, port charges, government fees, or other third-party costs on behalf of the importer or consignee. The fee compensates the provider for advancing funds, managing payment, and completing administrative work needed to release or move the shipment. Disbursement fees are common in international shipping and are usually billed separately from freight, customs duty, VAT, and storage charges.
- Separate from the broker’s professional service fee
- May be expressed as a percentage of the disbursed amount or as a flat fee
- Importers should expect disbursement fees when their broker pays duties on their behalf
- Minimized when importers establish direct duty payment accounts with CBP
Related terms: Deferment Fee, Professional Service Fees, Customs Bond, Customs Clearance.
