MSC Introduces “Container Protection Fee” for China: What It Means for Exporters

Recently, Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), the world’s largest container shipping line, announced that starting November 1, 2025, it will implement a new charge in mainland China: the Container Protection Fee (Damage-Protection-Fee, ZDP).

This fee has attracted wide industry attention as it represents the first innovative charge in the container shipping market in over half a century.

1. Fee Details

According to MSC’s customer advisory:

Effective Date: November 1, 2025

Applicable Area: Mainland China only

Fee Rates:

Dry container: CNY 75 per container

Reefer container: CNY 135 per container

Usage Rules:

Dry container: CNY 75 can offset up to CNY 675 of repair/cleaning costs

Reefer container: CNY 135 can offset up to CNY 750 of repair/cleaning costs

Important Note: The fee is non-refundable; any repair costs exceeding the deductible must still be covered by the customer.

2. Data Insights

MSC currently holds about 19% of global market share, with significant export volumes from China.

With an annual export volume of around 12 million TEU handled by MSC in China, the Container Protection Fee could generate over CNY 600 million annually in additional revenue.

While the fee per container is relatively small, the cumulative impact on exporters’ logistics costs is significant.

3. Impact on Customers

Increased Export Costs
Small and medium-sized exporters and cross-border e-commerce sellers may see further pressure on profit margins.

Lower Fee Transparency
Unlike insurance, the Container Protection Fee does not fully cover risks, potentially causing confusion among shippers.

Possible Industry Adoption
Other major carriers may follow suit in the future, making it a standard industry charge.

4. Recommendations for Shippers

✅ Confirm freight cost composition: Ask your freight forwarder or carrier whether the Container Protection Fee is included to avoid disputes.
✅ Incorporate the fee into overall logistics planning: Particularly important for high-volume shippers.
✅ Optimize container handling: Ensure proper packaging, loading, and cleaning to minimize additional repair costs.
✅ Choose carriers strategically: If other lines do not yet charge this fee, consider diversifying shipping partners to reduce costs.

5. Conclusion

Global shipping continues to evolve rapidly, with new fees emerging regularly. MSC’s Container Protection Fee is just the beginning.
For exporters, selecting a transparent, professional, and reliable logistics partner is key to controlling costs and minimizing uncertainty.

👉 If you are looking for guidance on MSC’s Container Protection Fee or need end-to-end solutions for China-US shipping, air freight, or DDP/DDU services, contact Passionship International Logistics for a customized cost optimization plan.