implement Panama Canal Low Water Surcharge.pdf

TO : Whom It May Concerned 

FM: CS team / COSCO shipping Lines Korea

Date: NOV 27 ,2023

Re: implement Panama Canal Low Water Surcharge (PLW)

Dear Valued Customers,

Because of global warming and continued drought, Panama Canal is experiencing severe situation of low water and congestion, 

which will not be eased within short period.

Draft restrictions released by Panama Canal Authority have limited the number of daily vessel transits through Panama Canal, 

and will continue to reduce effective capacity of container vessels.

With the increase of the turnaround time as well as the Canal Tariff implemented, 

operation cost of TPE services crossing the Panama Canal will be increased substantially.

To recover extra expenses as well as ensure the service quality, 

COSCO Shipping Lines will implement Panama Canal Low Water Surcharge (PLW), starting January 1, 2024 as follows

USD 255.00/20' container 

USD 300.00/40' container 

USD 380.00/45' container

This charge is applicable for all cargo moving via the Panama Canal to/via US Atlantic and Gulf Coast.

Thank you for your kind understanding and continuous support. 

Should you have any questions, please contact your local sales representative.