Hapag-Lloyd has announced the introduction of an Emergency Operations Charge (EOO/EOD) in response to rising operational costs linked to third-party feeder services in the Middle East.
The move follows continued geopolitical developments in the region, which have driven a sharp increase in fuel prices and, in turn, higher costs from external feeder service providers. While the previously implemented Emergency Fuel Surcharge (EFS) addresses fuel-related expenses within Hapag-Lloyd’s own network, the company said additional charges from third-party operators require a separate adjustment.
The new surcharge will be applied as an Emergency Operations Charge at origin (EOO) and at destination (EOD), depending on the shipment. It will be set at USD 35 per TEU and will apply to all container types.
For non-FMC regulated trades, the charge will take effect for shipments with a tariffing date on or after May 1, 2026. In FMC-regulated trades, the surcharge will become effective from May 24, 2026.
The charge will be payable by the sea freight payer and is intended to reflect the increased operational costs imposed by third-party feeder operators under current market conditions.
Hapag-Lloyd said the adjustment is necessary to maintain service continuity and ensure the reliability of feeder operations amid ongoing market volatility.
