You Paid Freight Prepaid, but the Carrier Is Asking for Thousands of Dollars More. Should You Pay?
Prepared by the Maritime & Admiralty Team at Soliman Advocates
This article has been prepared by the firm's maritime lawyers as part of Soliman Advocates' Maritime Legal Insights series, drawing on the team's experience in Egyptian maritime law and shipping disputes.
“Freight Prepaid” does not necessarily prevent a carrier from charging additional amounts. But an additional charge is not automatically payable simply because the carrier demands it.
Before paying, request the invoice or debit note, the reason for the charge, and its contractual basis. Determine whether the amount relates to freight, demurrage, detention, storage, transshipment, or another charge.
If payment is necessary to obtain release of the cargo, the manner of payment should be carefully considered while expressly preserving your rights to dispute and recover the amount where appropriate.
Do not accept an additional charge simply because you need your cargo released, and do not reject it without understanding its contractual and legal basis.
Facing an Additional Shipping Charge? Soliman Advocates – Cargo & Customs Department can review the Bill of Lading, payment demand, correspondence, and relevant documents, assess the basis of the charge, and advise on the appropriate steps to protect your rights.
Prepared by: Cargo & Customs Department – Soliman Advocates
Legal Disclaimer
This article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or a legal opinion on any specific matter or dispute. Identifying the responsible party and the appropriate recovery route depends on the nature and timing of the damage, delay or shortage, the carriage and insurance terms, the applicable law or international convention, and the specific facts of each case. Payment made to obtain release of cargo does not necessarily determine whether the amount was legally due, and the consequences of payment depend on the circumstances and manner in which it was made. The relevant documents should be reviewed with specialized legal counsel before taking any action.
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