In international air freight transportation, shipping costs consist not only of the base freight rate but also various surcharges designed to ensure cargo is transported safely and efficiently. One of the most important and commonly applied charges is the SSC (Security Surcharge), also known as the Air Cargo Security Fee.

So, what is SSC? Why are importers and exporters required to pay this surcharge, and how is it calculated? Let's explore everything you need to know in the article below.

What Is SSC?

SSC stands for Security Surcharge.

It is a surcharge imposed by airlines, airport operators, or logistics providers to cover expenses related to cargo security screening, monitoring, and control before goods are transported by air.

In other words, SSC is used to support security-related activities such as:

• X-ray screening of cargo.

• Explosives and hazardous material inspections.

• Security monitoring within cargo warehouses.

• Cargo control procedures before loading onto aircraft.

• Operation and maintenance of airport security systems.

Since air transportation is currently the mode of transport with the highest safety requirements, SSC is applied to almost all import and export shipments transported by air.

Why Is SSC Charged?

Following numerous aviation security incidents worldwide, international aviation authorities have significantly strengthened cargo screening procedures before loading goods onto aircraft.

To comply with international security standards, airports and airlines must invest heavily in:

Advanced Cargo Screening Systems

Every shipment must undergo inspection through:

• High-capacity X-ray scanners.

• Explosive detection equipment.

• Dangerous goods identification systems.

These measures help prevent risks associated with:

• Weapons.

• Explosive materials.

• Prohibited goods.

• Dangerous cargo.

Surveillance and Internal Control Systems

Cargo is strictly monitored from the moment it enters the airport warehouse until it is loaded onto the aircraft through:

• 24/7 CCTV surveillance.

• Access control systems.

• Cargo sealing and verification procedures.

These controls help minimize the risk of loss, theft, or unauthorized interference.

Dedicated Security Personnel

SSC also contributes to the costs of:

• Airport security officers.

• Cargo inspection teams.

• Operational monitoring staff.

• Emergency response units.

These personnel play a vital role in ensuring the safety of flights, passengers, and cargo operations.

How SSC Is Calculated in Air Freight

Unlike the AWB Fee (Air Waybill Fee), which is usually charged as a fixed amount per shipment, SSC is typically calculated based on the shipment's Chargeable Weight.

Calculation Formula

SSC = SSC Rate × Chargeable Weight

Where:

Chargeable Weight is the greater of:

• Gross Weight (actual weight).

• Volumetric Weight (dimensional weight).

Example

Assume:

• SSC rate: USD 0.15 per kilogram.

• Chargeable Weight: 500 kg.

The SSC would be:

SSC = 0.15 × 500 = USD 75

Therefore, the shipper must pay USD 75 as the security surcharge for this shipment.

Minimum SSC Charge

Many airlines apply a minimum SSC amount regardless of shipment weight.

For example:

• SSC rate: USD 0.15/kg.

• Minimum SSC: USD 15.

If the shipment has a Chargeable Weight of only 20 kg:

0.15 × 20 = USD 3

Since the calculated amount is below the minimum charge, the customer would still be required to pay USD 15.

Difference Between SSC and Other Air Freight Surcharges

In air freight quotations, SSC often appears alongside several other surcharges. Understanding the purpose of each charge helps businesses manage logistics costs more effectively.

Important Considerations Regarding SSC

Review Freight Quotations Carefully

When receiving quotations from freight forwarders or carriers, businesses should confirm:

• Whether SSC is already included in the quotation.

• Whether FSC has been applied.

• Whether any special security-related charges may arise.

This helps avoid unexpected expenses when receiving the final invoice.

SSC Rates May Change

Although SSC is generally more stable than the Fuel Surcharge (FSC), it may still be adjusted due to:

• Increased global security risks.

• Geopolitical developments.

• Changes in international aviation regulations.

• Upgrades to airport security infrastructure.

Accurate Cargo Declaration Is Essential

Businesses must provide accurate declarations, especially for cargo containing:

• Lithium batteries.

• Chemicals.

• Liquids.

• Electronic devices.

• Dangerous Goods (DG).

If the declared information does not match screening results, the shipment may:

• Be detained for further inspection.

• Incur additional handling charges.

• Miss scheduled flights.

• Be rejected for transportation.

Benefits of Understanding SSC

A clear understanding of SSC enables businesses to:

• Plan logistics budgets more accurately.

• Avoid unexpected surcharges.

• Compare quotations from different freight forwarders effectively.

• Optimize air freight transportation costs.

• Minimize risks associated with cargo security inspections.

For companies that regularly ship goods by air, understanding SSC contributes significantly to better cost management and improved business competitiveness.

Conclusion

SSC (Security Surcharge) is a mandatory air freight surcharge used to ensure cargo is thoroughly inspected and monitored before being loaded onto an aircraft. Although it represents only a small portion of overall logistics costs, SSC plays a critical role in maintaining the safety and security of the global air cargo supply chain.

Businesses should understand how SSC is calculated, when it applies, and the factors that may affect its rate. This knowledge allows them to build more effective transportation plans and maintain better control over logistics expenses.

If you are looking for a professional air freight solution with transparent pricing and optimized transit times, contact our team of logistics experts today for consultation and a fast quotation.

Songwin – Your Trusted Logistics Partner

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