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How to avoid hidden costs when exporting to the US?

Exporting to the US is a huge opportunity for growth, but it also carries the risk of unexpected costs that can strain your company’s budget. Inadequate transport planning, delays, or a lack of knowledge of local regulations can cause your margin to be much lower than you anticipated.

What should you pay attention to?

✔ Free time at the port – Keeping a container at the terminal beyond the specified “free time” means demurrage and detention charges, which can be as high as $500 per day.

✔ City entry fees – In some cities, such as New York, truck drivers have to pay additional fees to enter the city center.

✔ Customs duties and broker fees – If the recipient in the US does not have a customs broker, the paperwork may fall on you, generating additional fees.

✔ Weight limits – Regulations in the US are strict, and exceeding them may mean reloading or rerouting, which increases transportation costs.

✔ Importer Security Filing (ISF) – Failure to submit an ISF on time can result in a fine of up to $10,000.

Each of these risks can be minimized, but you need to know how. We know what can be negotiated, where to look for savings, and how to adapt logistics to the realities of the US market.