As the January 1, 2020 implementation date of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) new low-sulphur regulations approached, shippers
found difficulties sorting out and understanding the many different charges that shipping lines had already implemented. Concerns and confusion about the multiplicity of rates and charges from various lines were reported to the European Shipper’s Council.
Exporters and freight forwarders were troubled by the various line items of costs, charges, surcharges then being billed and were demanding that shipping lines give more explanations to support their charges. Questions as to why these charges were being applied ahead of the January 1, 2020 implementation date were also being asked.