Port Security Service - Export PSSE

The Port Security Service - Export (PSSE) fee is a critical charge that pertains to the security measures implemented at export ports to ensure the safe and secure handling of outgoing cargo. This fee arises from the necessity to comply with international security regulations, such as the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, which mandates the protection of port facilities against security threats. The responsibility for levying this fee typically falls on the port authority or the terminal operator, who then pass the cost onto the shipping lines. Subsequently, these shipping lines incorporate the PSSE fee into the overall shipping expenses, which are ultimately borne by the exporter or the freight forwarder acting on behalf of the exporter.

The PSSE fee is applicable in scenarios where goods are being shipped internationally from a port, and it is calculated based on various factors such as the type of cargo, the volume of goods, and the specific security requirements of the port. Unlike other charges such as terminal handling charges or customs duties, which cover the physical handling and administrative processing of goods, the PSSE fee specifically addresses the security-related aspects of cargo transit.

In practice, it is important for exporters and freight forwarders to be aware of the PSSE fee as part of the total shipping cost and to ensure that it is clearly itemized in the freight invoice. This transparency helps in accurate budgeting and cost management. Additionally, being informed about the security protocols at specific ports can aid in understanding potential variations in the PSSE fee and in anticipating any operational delays that might arise due to heightened security measures.