A Peak Season Surcharge, or PSS, is an extra freight charge applied during periods of high shipping demand when carrier capacity, equipment, labour, or port space is under pressure. It is common in ocean freight, air cargo, parcel shipping, and peak retail seasons before holidays. Carriers use PSS to manage congestion, recover higher operating costs, and balance limited space. For shippers, the surcharge increases landed cost and should be planned into seasonal logistics budgets.
PSS (Peak Season Surcharge) is an additional per-container fee imposed by ocean carriers during high-demand shipping periods, typically July through October before the holiday season. It is the same as Peak Season Surcharge.
- Applied per TEU or FEU on affected trade lanes
- Announced by carriers with 30 days or less notice
- Rates vary by carrier and trade lane
- Duration is typically 2 to 4 months depending on market conditions
For related logistics context, see glossary entries on GRI, BAF, FCL, and LCL.
