CMA CGM adds US$800 reefer surcharge on South America–Northern Europe routes

CMA CGM is introducing a Peak Season Surcharge (PSS) of US$800 per reefer container on shipments from Chile, Peru, and Ecuador to Northern Europe. The surcharge applies to short-term contracts as part of the carrier's year-end rate adjustment and takes effect on October 15 for cargo loaded in Chile and Peru and on October 24 for shipments from Ecuador. The US$800 charge is additional to other operating surcharges, including fuel costs, terminal handling charges (THC), and security fees, which vary by individual route.

Seasonal export window and cargo mix

The surcharge coincides with the start of the agricultural and fishing export seasons from the three South American countries to the Northern Hemisphere, running from October through November. Reefer cargo during this period includes stone fruit, grapes, early cherries, blueberries, avocados, bananas, and seafood products.

Equipment imbalance drives the cost

Refrigerated export volumes from Chile, Peru, and Ecuador are not matched by equivalent reefer cargo flows from Europe. As a result, shipping companies must reposition empty refrigerated containers to ports in the region to meet export demand. According to the provided information, the additional costs associated with this equipment imbalance are passed on through the Peak Season Surcharge.