Ocean Freight Surcharges

AMS Surcharge (AMS Fee)

AMS (AMS Fee): US Customs advance manifest filing fee. When it applies, typical range, and who pays under common Incoterms.

Code
AMS
Name
AMS Fee
Typical range
$25-$50 per bill of lading
Routes
All routes to USA, Transit cargo through US ports

AMS (Automated Manifest System) fee covers the cost of filing advance cargo information with US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) as required by the Trade Act of 2002. All cargo destined for the United States or transiting through US ports must be declared to CBP at least 24 hours before loading at the foreign port.

AMS requirements include: • Shipper and consignee details • Cargo description and quantity • Bill of lading number • Vessel and voyage information • Container numbers

The 24-hour rule means: • Carriers must transmit AMS data 24 hours before cargo is loaded • CBP screens shipments for security risks • "Do Not Load" messages can prevent cargo from being shipped • Amendments require re-filing and can cause delays

The AMS fee charged to shippers covers: • Carrier costs for data transmission systems • Staff time for data entry and validation • Compliance monitoring and corrections • Liability for accurate filing

Similar systems exist for Canada (ACI), EU (ENS), Japan (AFR), and China (AMS), each with their own fees and requirements.

When AMS applies

All shipments to the United States or transiting US ports.

Who pays AMS under common Incoterms

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

How to minimize AMS

  • Provide accurate shipping information to avoid amendments
  • File documents early to avoid rush charges
  • Use experienced forwarders to minimize errors
  • Consolidate shipments to reduce per-unit fees

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Frequently asked questions

What is the AMS surcharge?

AMS stands for AMS Fee. US Customs advance manifest filing fee.

When does AMS apply?

All shipments to the United States or transiting US ports.

How much is AMS?

The typical range is $25-$50 per bill of lading. Confirm the current amount with your carrier or forwarder.