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US Customs Fees Explained

Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) & Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF)

The two fees that surprise first-time importers: MPF (0.3464%, even on duty-free goods) and HMF (0.125% on ocean cargo). Here's how they're calculated — and how they fit into your real landed cost.

0.3464%
MPF rate
Formal entries
$34–652
MPF min / max
Adjusted annually
0.125%
HMF rate
Ocean cargo only
Yes
FTA exemption
USMCA, KORUS & more
Calculate duty + MPF + HMF free

Worked example: $50,000 ocean shipment

ChargeBasisAmount
Customs duty (example 5% MFN)5% × $50,000$2,500.00
MPF0.3464% × $50,000$173.20
HMF (ocean)0.125% × $50,000$62.50
Customs broker fee (typical)Per entry$125.00
ISF filing (ocean)Per shipment$35.00
Total import charges (before freight)$2,895.70

Fee amounts adjust annually; verify current figures at cbp.gov. China-origin goods would add Section 301 + the 10% Section 122 surcharge on top.

MPF & HMF — FAQs

See every fee before your goods ship

The calculator stacks duty + Section 301 + Section 122 + MPF + HMF + freight into one landed cost number. Free, no account.

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