Low Water levels on Manaus river

Maersk wishes to advise our customers that we are facing a situation of decreasing water levels on the Manaus River. This has resulted in reduction of permissible drafts for all vessels and barge sailing on the river, leading to a significant decrease on cargo carrying capacity.

Due to this situation, Maersk will be introducing a Low Water Surcharge (LWC) effective from 25th October 2021. This Low Water fee will be applicable to all containers from or into Port Manaus, Brazil.

The tariff levels are as follows

* PCD = Price Calculation Date. For non-FMC, PCD refers to the scheduled departure date of the first water leg at the time of booking confirmation for non-spot bookings. For FMC, PCD is last container gate-in date for non-spot bookings.

The LWC is an exceptional and temporary charge applicable due to the extraordinary conditions of navigation that will be periodically reviewed and adjusted if necessary, by virtue of the current situation. It will be removed once the sailing conditions return to normal.

For your reference, we have also included the levels and the rate structure for some sample corridors (Short-Term) from Shanghai, China to Manaus, Brazil valid from 25th September until further notice. These charges may be changed in the future and we will notify you accordingly.

Shanghai, China to Manaus, Brazil

Dry Container

Special Containers

• The above sample corridor is also subject to other applicable surcharges, including local charges and contingency charges.
• These rates are unaffected by, and do not affect, any tariff notified, published or filed in accordance with local regulatory requirements.
• For trades subject to the US Shipping Act or the China Maritime Regulations, quotations or surcharges that vary from the Maersk tariff shall not be binding on Maersk unless included in a service contract or service contract amendment that has been filed with the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) or the Shanghai Shipping Exchange, as applicable.

We regret having to implement this fee, and recognize the challenge it brings on you, but hope for your understanding. We appreciate your business and look forward to continuing working with you in the future.