A US freight quote showing only the ocean freight rate is incomplete. ISF filing, AMS, THC, inland trucking, and customs brokerage fees are often quoted separately — or not at all. Knowing which cost items to check for prevents budget surprises on arrival in the US.
When comparing US freight forwarding quotes, the ocean freight number is only one part of the total cost. Forwarders structure their quotes differently — some include everything, others show only the base freight and add other charges later. Knowing which cost items to ask about before you commit protects your budget and allows accurate comparison.
Sea Freight vs. Air Freight for US Shipments: Choosing the Right Mode
| Factor | Sea Freight | Air Freight |
|---|---|---|
| Transit time (Korea to US West Coast) | ~12–18 days | ~1–3 days |
| Transit time (Korea to US East Coast) | ~25–35 days | ~2–4 days |
| Cost | Low per CBM/ton | High per kg |
| Best for | Large volumes, non-urgent cargo | Small, urgent, or high-value cargo |
US Freight Cost Items: What to Check in Every Quote
| Cost Item | Description | Typically Included? |
|---|---|---|
| Ocean / Air Freight | Base port-to-port or airport-to-airport rate | Always shown |
| Korea THC (Origin) | Korean port terminal handling charge | Sometimes included |
| ISF Filing Fee | US Importer Security Filing — mandatory for ocean | Varies by forwarder |
| AMS Fee | US Automated Manifest System filing | Varies by forwarder |
| B/L Fee | Bill of Lading issuance | Often extra |
| US THC (Destination) | US port terminal handling charge | Often extra |
| US Customs Brokerage | US customs entry filing fee | Often extra |
| Inland Trucking (US) | Port to final destination | Conditional / extra |
AMS and ISF: Mandatory US Filing Requirements
AMS (Automated Manifest System) is required for all ocean shipments to the US — the carrier or forwarder must file cargo manifest data with US CBP before loading. ISF (Importer Security Filing) must be submitted by the US importer (or their broker) at least 24 hours before the vessel departs from the foreign port. Failure to file ISF on time can result in CBP penalties of up to USD 10,000 per violation. Always confirm with your forwarder who files ISF, when, and whether the fee is included in the quote.
How to Choose the Right US Freight Forwarder
Request a fully itemised quote covering all origin, freight, and destination charges. Ask specifically about ISF and AMS fees. Confirm that the forwarder operates US routes regularly — not just occasionally. Check that they have established US-side agent relationships for customs clearance and inland delivery. For inland US destinations (Chicago, Dallas, Atlanta), confirm rail and trucking options and costs before booking.
A US freight quote should be evaluated as a total landed cost, not just an ocean freight number. Request a full itemised breakdown covering ISF, AMS, THC at both ends, customs brokerage, and inland delivery. This is the only way to make an accurate comparison between forwarders and plan your budget correctly.
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