Import costs · 2 min read
MPF and HMF: U.S. import fees beyond duty
MPF and HMF are distinct U.S. user fees, not carrier or customs-broker invoices. MPF treatment depends on the entry regime and exemptions; HMF turns on qualifying commercial vessel cargo at a covered port and also has exceptions. Verify the transaction and applicable fiscal-year adjustments before using a number.
Identify the fee before estimating it
| Item | Trigger to investigate | Not the same as |
|---|---|---|
| MPF | Entry type, customs value and applicable exemption | Base duty or broker fee |
| HMF | Commercial vessel cargo at a covered port, subject to exceptions | Every ocean booking or air shipment |
| Freight/handling | Contract and provider quote | Government user fee |
An air shipment does not meet the vessel condition described for HMF, but that fact alone does not decide MPF or every other charge. Conversely, an ocean booking does not prove that every HMF condition is satisfied. Use the actual entry and port facts.
Check regime and exemptions
The MPF regulation distinguishes formal and informal entries, provides exceptions and refers to annual adjustments of formal-entry limits. Its printed base figures are not automatically the amount in force for the year of your entry. Verify the relevant fiscal-year notice and any preferential or other exemption before quoting an amount.
- Ask the broker which entry regime is expected and why.
- Record customs value and any claimed exemption with supporting documents.
- For HMF, confirm vessel movement, covered port and any statutory/regulatory exception.
Keep the cost ledger honest
Label a supported MPF or HMF line as a government fee. Keep ocean freight, terminal handling and brokerage on their own quote lines. If the regime, port or yearly fee notice is unresolved, leave the fee pending rather than applying a remembered percentage or treating omission as zero.
Assumptions and limits
Assumptions
- A U.S. import entry is contemplated; formal or informal status, port, transport and exemptions are not yet established.
Costs and duties not included
- No MPF minimum, maximum, rate or HMF amount is presented as current; private freight and brokerage remain separate.
Prepare your own estimate
Use your shipment details to open the existing calculator.
Use digits and a dot, with up to two decimals (for example, 1200.50).
Opening the calculator prepares these inputs. Only pressing Calculate uses a calculation from your plan.
You will need to select the correct HTS code in the calculator before it can estimate duties.
Common questions
Is HMF charged on every import?
No. The regulation concerns qualifying commercial vessel cargo at specified ports and includes exceptions; check the particular movement.
Can I copy MPF limits from an old article?
No. Formal-entry limits are adjusted, and treatment differs by entry type and exemption. Verify the applicable fiscal-year notice.
Sources
- 19 CFR 24.23, merchandise processing fee
U.S. Customs and Border Protection / eCFR · Checked
- 19 CFR 24.24, harbor maintenance fee
U.S. Customs and Border Protection / eCFR · Checked
- Customs brokers and freight forwarders
U.S. Department of Commerce, International Trade Administration · Checked
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