Freight Glossary

THC (Terminal Handling Charge) – Meaning & Examples

A charge for handling containers at port terminals for loading/unloading from vessels.

Abbreviation
THC
Full term
Terminal Handling Charge
Related terms
THC, port charge, terminal charge

Terminal Handling Charge (THC) covers the cost of handling containers at the port terminal. This includes moving containers between the vessel and the container yard, stacking, and related terminal operations. THC applies at both origin (OTHC) and destination (DTHC). Charges vary by port and are typically quoted per container. THC is separate from the ocean freight rate and is a standard component of shipping costs.

Terminal Handling Charge examples

  • THC at Shanghai is $150 per 20' container and $200 per 40' container.

How THC is used in freight operations

THC appears in quotations, bookings, shipping documents, and tracking updates. Confirm how it applies to your shipment with your carrier, forwarder, or customs representative, because practice can differ by country and contract.

More in this directory

Frequently asked questions

What is THC?

A charge for handling containers at port terminals for loading/unloading from vessels.

What does THC stand for?

THC stands for Terminal Handling Charge.

What is an example of THC?

THC at Shanghai is $150 per 20' container and $200 per 40' container.