Maersk has announced a change in the way it bills its customers for additional fuel-related charges and new fossil fuel fees (FFF), according to The Loadstar. According to experts cited by the publication, this caused concern and surprise among the logistics operator’s customers.
Representatives of Maersk explained that the new methodology combines two previous charges – the bunker adjustment factor (BAF) surcharge and the low sulfur surcharge (LSS). “Our goal is to facilitate your logistics and ensure communication,” the company said. The new surcharge system will take effect from July 1 this year, but customers with long-term contracts will continue to pay under the old scheme.
However, despite the company’s assurances, experts point to some misunderstandings. There are currently no exact details on the FFF payment and calculation methodology, which is worrisome, as many believe that the new surcharge system will benefit the carrier rather than shippers.
One expert, who wished to remain anonymous, noted that Maersk has probably found an easy way to compensate for the “huge additional costs of methanol” and called it a “sneaky way.”