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Freight Forwarding & Incoterms: Key Terms Explained in Detail

Discover the essential freight forwarding terms and Incoterms that define responsibilities, risks, and cost-sharing in global trade. This glossary provides clear, practical explanations to help you navigate documentation and operational decisions with confidence.

Yard Maintenance Fee

Last updated: February 4, 2026
Y

A yard maintenance fee is a charge applied to cover the cost of maintaining and managing container yard infrastructure and daily operations. This includes upkeep of yard surfaces, lighting, drainage, security systems, and handling equipment. The fee helps ensure the yard remains safe and operational. It supports uninterrupted cargo movement.

The fee may also contribute to labor, systems, and routine maintenance activities required to manage yard traffic. These costs increase as yard usage grows and equipment ages. Charging a maintenance fee allows terminals to recover these expenses. It also helps sustain service quality.

Yard maintenance fees are typically applied per container, per move, or per shipment. They may appear as a separate line item on invoices. Understanding this charge helps shippers and consignees plan total logistics costs. Transparency reduces billing confusion.

Overall, the yard maintenance fee supports reliable and efficient yard operations. It ensures facilities are well-maintained and compliant with safety standards. It helps prevent operational disruptions. And it contributes to smoother terminal performance.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Yard Maintenance Fee

Clear answers to the most common questions people have when learning about Yard Maintenance Fee.

It covers the cost of maintaining yard infrastructure, equipment, and systems needed for daily operations.

No. Fees vary based on terminal size, location, and operational costs.

In most cases, it is a standard terminal charge, though terms may differ under specific service agreements.