Freight handling charges often confuse shippers, especially those new to logistics. In Canada, these charges appear on invoices from ports, airports, or freight forwarders, but many companies are not sure what exactly they cover. This article explains freight handling charges in simple terms, with real examples and expert insights. By the end, you’ll know how these fees are calculated, why they matter, and how to reduce unnecessary costs.
For broader logistics solutions, including imports and exports, see our Freight Forwarding Services.
What Are Freight Handling Charges?
Freight handling charges (sometimes listed as handling fees in freight) are costs for the physical work and services required to move your cargo safely. Think of them as the behind-the-scenes labor and equipment expenses that keep shipments flowing.
Typical inclusions:
- Unloading cargo from vessels, planes, or trucks.
- Moving goods into storage or staging areas.
- Using forklifts, cranes, or specialized gear.
- Repacking or crating cargo for extra protection.
- Handling paperwork and customs checks.
In other words, these charges cover all the effort it takes to move freight securely between transport points.
Why Do Handling Fees Vary?
Not all shipments are the same, which is why freight handling fees differ. Common factors include:
- Cargo size and weight: Heavy machinery needs cranes, while a small pallet may only need a forklift.
- Type of goods: Fragile, hazardous, or refrigerated goods require extra care and special procedures.
- Location: Large ports like Vancouver or Toronto often charge higher rates due to demand.
- Storage time: The longer your cargo sits in a terminal, the more you pay.
- Special requests: Services like custom crating or labeling add to the cost.
Typical Freight Handling Costs in Canada
Here’s a simple breakdown of what you might expect to pay:
| Service | What It Covers | Average Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Cargo Unloading | Labor + equipment for unloading shipments | $75 – $150 per load |
| Forklift / Crane Use | Moving oversized or heavy freight | $100 – $400 |
| Warehousing Storage | Daily storage in bonded or cold facilities | $0.20 – $0.35 per kg per day |
| Customs Documentation | Preparing and filing paperwork with CBSA | $50 – $200 per shipment |
| Repackaging / Crating | Extra protection for fragile or odd cargo | $100 – $500 per shipment |
These ranges can shift depending on provider, location, and season.
Real-Life Examples of Freight Handling Charges
- Example 1: Importing Electronics via Vancouver
A container of electronics required unloading ($150), forklift handling ($200), and two days of storage ($0.25/kg/day), totaling about $900. - Example 2: Air Freight Through Toronto Pearson (YYZ)
A shipment of perishable food incurred $300 in handling, $120 in customs paperwork, and $80 in cold storage for 24 hours. - Example 3: Industrial Equipment in Halifax
Oversized equipment needed crane support and custom crating, pushing handling charges beyond $1,200.
How to Reduce Freight Handling Fees
Handling fees may seem fixed, but smart planning helps lower them:
- Pick up cargo quickly: Avoid daily storage costs.
- Package properly: Reduce the need for re-crating or repackaging.
- Bundle shipments: Fewer, larger loads are often cheaper to handle.
- Work with a reliable forwarder: A good logistics partner negotiates fair rates and avoids hidden charges.
For integrated solutions, our Freight Forwarding Solutions help businesses cut costs while staying compliant.
Why Metropolitan Logistics?
Metropolitan Logistics provides transparent, cost-effective handling services in Canada. We believe in clarity — you always know what you’re paying for. With access to major ports and airports, plus value-added services like custom crating and bonded warehousing, we make logistics predictable and efficient.
Conclusion
Freight handling charges are a normal part of shipping, but understanding them can save businesses significant money. By knowing what fees include, why they vary, and how to reduce them, shippers gain control over logistics costs.
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✉️ service@metropolitanlogistics.ca for a tailored quote today.
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