A.P. Moller-Maersk (Maersk) has announced that it will introduce a Heavy Load Surcharge (HWS) on 20-foot dry containers exceeding 22 metric tonnes moving from North West India to Europe and the Mediterranean from 7 July 2026.
The surcharge applies to contract cargo loaded at Nhava Sheva, Mundra, Pipavav and Hazira, with carriers imposing an additional €500 ($566) charge per container above the specified weight threshold.
The measure affects 20DRY equipment only and is based on the Price Calculation Date (PCD), defined as the scheduled departure date of the first ocean leg at the time of booking confirmation for non-spot bookings.
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According to Maersk, the surcharge is triggered when the Verified Gross Mass (VGM) exceeds 22 metric tonnes. VGM includes cargo weight, dunnage, bracing and the tare weight of the container.
The Danish carrier stated that the surcharge remains subject to other applicable local and contingency charges and does not alter tariff obligations governed by regional regulatory frameworks, including the US Shipping Act and China Maritime Regulations.
For more information:
Maersk – https://www.maersk.com/
