Ocean Freight Surcharges

CIC Surcharge (Container Imbalance Charge)

CIC (Container Imbalance Charge): Charge for repositioning empty containers. When it applies, typical range, and who pays under common Incoterms.

Code
CIC
Name
Container Imbalance Charge
Typical range
$100-$400 per TEU
Routes
Exports from USA/Europe to Asia, Any trade lane with imbalanced flows

Container Imbalance Charge (CIC), also known as Equipment Imbalance Surcharge (EIS), is a fee charged by shipping lines to cover the cost of repositioning empty containers from areas of surplus to areas of deficit. Global trade imbalances mean that more loaded containers flow in one direction than the other, leaving excess empties in import-heavy regions.

Common imbalance examples: • US imports more from Asia than exports → excess empties in US • Europe imports more from Asia → empties accumulate in Europe • Australia exports bulk but imports containerized goods → imbalance

Repositioning empty containers is costly: • Ships must allocate space for empty containers • Empty containers generate no revenue but incur handling costs • Positioning requires coordination and planning

CIC is typically charged on exports from regions with container deficits (e.g., exports from US to Asia) to help offset the cost of bringing empty containers back to these regions.

When CIC applies

Applied on exports from regions with container shortages.

Who pays CIC under common Incoterms

  • FOB: seller
  • CIF: seller
  • EXW: buyer
  • DAP: seller

How to minimize CIC

  • Use carrier-owned containers vs SOC (Shipper Owned)
  • Negotiate CIC waivers for backhaul cargo
  • Consider regional carriers with better equipment positioning
  • Plan exports to coincide with container availability

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Frequently asked questions

What is the CIC surcharge?

CIC stands for Container Imbalance Charge. Charge for repositioning empty containers.

When does CIC apply?

Applied on exports from regions with container shortages.

How much is CIC?

The typical range is $100-$400 per TEU. Confirm the current amount with your carrier or forwarder.