What is Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF) in 2025? Key Details & Updates

Introduction Understanding the Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF) is vital for international shipping businesses to the U.S. This fee, established by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), affects logistics costs directly.

In this guide, we break down the HMF fee, its calculation, 2025 updates, and how it affects your shipments.

What is Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF)?

The Harbor Maintenance Fee is a U.S. federal charge on commercial cargo brought in by sea. This fee helps pay for the upkeep and development of U.S. ports and harbors. Established under the Water Resources Development Act of 1986, it applies to goods entering the U.S. through maritime routes. Key points:

• Rate: 0.125% of the cargo’s commercial invoice value (excluding duties, freight, and insurance)

• Minimum Charge: $25 per bill of lading (BL) for most shipments

• Scope: Applies only to frete marítimo—air and land shipments are exempt

   

Harbor Maintenance Fee 2025 Updates

As of 2025, the HMF fee structure remains consistent with prior years, but importers should note:

1. No Caps: unlike the merchandise processing fee (mpf), hmf has no maximum limit. this means that higher-value cargo incurs higher fees.

2. Trust Fund Allocation: HMF funds go into the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund. They help pay for port infrastructure projects.

3. Exemptions: Certain shipments between U.S. ports and some government cargo may qualify for exemptions.

    

How is HMF Calculated?

The HMF fee is calculated as: HMF = 0.125% × (Cargo Value) For example:

• A shipment valued at 100,000incurs100,000incurs125 in HMF.

• If the calculated fee is below 25,theminimumchargeof25,theminimumchargeof25 applies

   

HMF vs. MPF: Key Differences

While both fees apply to U.S. imports, they serve distinct purposes:

The Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF) remains a critical cost factor for sea freight imports to the U.S. in 2025. By understanding its calculation, exemptions, and updates, businesses can optimize logistics budgets and ensure compliance. For tailored guidance on managing HMF and other customs fees, consult a licensed freight forwarder or CBP resources.