Freight guides commonly describe Manila as the most congested port on the China to Philippines route. When cargo waits, the cost can grow: containers that stay at the terminal beyond their free time can attract storage, demurrage or detention charges.
What causes the waiting
- Incomplete or inconsistent documents, such as an invoice that does not match the packing list.
- Customs entries that are late or need correction.
- Cargo that is ready to leave the port but has no truck booked.
- Peak periods, such as the weeks before Christmas and after Lunar New Year.
What you can do
- Send your invoice and packing list early, and check that quantities and values match.
- Describe goods specifically, with model, material and use.
- Tell us your delivery address and any access limits before arrival.
- Keep someone available to confirm details while the shipment clears.
- Add buffer time to your selling or production plan.
Our rates already cover standard storage and documentation for standard cargo. We will tell you before shipping if anything unusual could add cost.