GRICharges & Tariffs

General Rate Increase

Definition: An across-the-board increase in base ocean container freight rates announced by shipping lines across a specific trade lane.

Detailed Freight Guide & Operational Context

A General Rate Increase (GRI) is a coordinated or unilateral price hike announced by container shipping lines to restore freight rates during periods of high demand or vessel capacity tightness.

Under US Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) regulations, carriers must give at least 30 days of public notice before a GRI can take effect on US trade lanes.

GRIs are commonly announced ahead of peak shipping seasons (such as the pre-Golden Week rush in September or pre-Lunar New Year in January). Market supply and demand dynamics determine whether carriers successfully implement the full GRI or discount it.

Real-World Example in Practice

Carriers on the Asia-to-US West Coast trade lane announce a $600 per 40ft container GRI effective July 1st ahead of the holiday retail import rush.

Frequently Asked Questions about GRI

What is a GRI in shipping?

A GRI (General Rate Increase) is an ocean carrier adjustment raising base container freight rates across all routes on a specific trade lane.

Can a GRI be mitigated?

Shippers with long-term named-account service contracts often negotiate GRI caps or exemptions to shield their freight budgets from sudden rate spikes.

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Related Shipping Terms

Bunker Adjustment Factor

BAF

Terminal Handling Charge

THC

Full Container Load

FCL

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