Contents

 

1. Introduction
2. FAK (Freight All Kinds) in maritime transport 
3. Advantages of using FAK in maritime transport for exporters and freight forwarders 
4. Potential points of attention when negotiating FAK tariffs in maritime transport
5. FAQs- FAK in maritime export

 

FAK, in the context of maritime transport, is a tariff structure used to simplify freight negotiations involving different types of goods. 

International trade operations have become increasingly common, and thousands of Brazilian companies are already taking advantage of the benefits associated with international sales.

 

According to data from the Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade and Services, Brazil set a new record for exports during the first quarter of 2026, with sales reaching a total of US$ 82.3 billion.

 

These results represent an increase of 7.1% compared to the same period in 2025.

 

Given this increase in exports,  more flexible tariff structures are becoming more prominent in international negotiations. The use of FAK in maritime transport may be highlighted as an alternative that is capable of simplifying business processes and generating greater predictability in operations. 

 

But how does FAK work in practice?

FAK (Freight All Kinds) in maritime exports 

 

You may be wondering: what exactly is FAK?

FAK in maritime transport is an acronym for Freight All Kinds, a term used to define a tariff structure under which different types of goods can be classified under the same freight tariff. 

 

In practice, FAK allows different commodities or general cargo to be consolidated under the same commercial conditions negotiated with shipowners or NVOCCs. 

 

This tariff structure also helps to simplify 

• commercial negotiations and quotation processes,
• bookings and
• the contractual management of operations. 

FAK in maritime transport is an interesting alternative for companies that work with different types of goods and are seeking greater predictability in export tariffs.

 

Advantages of using FAK in maritime transport for exporters and freight forwarders 

 

Freight forwarders that are able to negotiate FAK tariffs can generate excellent results for their operations and offer customers relevant benefits.

 

Key strategic advantages offered by FAK include:

• the simplification of quotations,
• greater agility in responding to exporters’ needs,
• more predictable costs,
• better optimization of margins.

 

Well-structured negotiations of FAK tariffs help increase commercial predictability and reduce tariff divergences throughout operations. 

 

Proper negotiation of FAK rates goes beyond trade simplification. When negotiations are well structured, they can help establish more predictable and competitive maritime export operations. 

Potential points of attention when negotiating FAK tariffs in maritime transport 

 

There are several key points that must be evaluated when negotiating FAKs in maritime export.

 

Certain goods cannot be classified this model, and tariffs may not be accepted by shipowners, including:

• dangerous goods,
• high-value cargo,
• refrigerated (reefer) cargo,
• extremely heavy items,
• oversized loads,

commodities exported on a large scale. 

 

Tariff exceptions also exist, especially whenever cargo deviates from its average density or requires special handling.

 

Another essential factor involves routes and the shipowner that is contracted. Relevant variations may exist between trading conditions, availability and operating rules, so a well-conducted negotiation can make a huge difference.

 

Whenever there are divergences between the declared cargo and the cargo effectively shipped, tariff reclassifications and operational penalties may apply.

Divergences generally involve document errors, incorrect classification, or a lack of prior agreements between the parties involved in the operation.

In such cases, additional charges, demurrage, detention and operational delays may occur.

 

It is also essential that potential financial divergences be formalized under a contract, such as:

• fuel rates,
• safety fees,
• peak season surcharges.

 

Addressing such items in advance will help reduce unnecessary stress, delays and losses throughout operations.

 

Now that you have learned a bit more about how FAK is used in maritime transport and the factors that need to be evaluated during tariff negotiations... 

Take a moment to check out our content on the different types of maritime transport.

 

Sources:

https://comexstat.mdic.gov.br/pt/home

https://www.gov.br/mdic/pt-br/assuntos/comercio-exterior/estatisticas

https://www.gov.br/antaq/pt-br/noticias/2023/antaq-disponibiliza-painel-atualizado-das-tarifas-dos-portos-organizados

 

FAQ — FAK in maritime transport 

1. What is FAK in maritime transport?

FAK (Freight All Kinds) is a tariff structure used in international maritime transport that allows different types of goods to be classified under the same freight tariff.

 

2. What does Freight All Kinds mean?

Freight All Kinds represents commercial conditions under which different cargoes may be given the same tariff classification in maritime transport.

 

3. How does FAK work in maritime exports?

Using FAK, different goods can be classified under the same tariff structure negotiated with shipowners or NVOCCs to simplify commercial processes and freight negotiations.

 

4. What is the difference between FAK and shipment types?

FAK is not a transport mode, shipment type or logistics operation. It is a tariff structure used to simplify sea freight negotiations.

 

5. What are the advantages of using FAK in maritime transport?

The main advantages of using FAK include:
▪ simplified quotations
▪ greater tariff predictability
▪ agility during commercial operations
▪ reductions in operational complexity
▪ improved management of freight contracts

 

6. Can FAK be used to reduce logistics costs?

The FAK can contribute to greater predictability and more efficient tariffs, especially during operations involving different types of goods; however, such advantages depend on negotiations held with shipowners and the cargo’s specific characteristics.

 

7. What cargo is not typically classified under FAK?

Certain cargoes are subject to operational or commercial restrictions, such as:
▪ dangerous cargo
▪ refrigerated cargo (reefer)
▪ high value-added cargo
▪ oversized loads
▪ extremely heavy loads
▪ commodities exported on a large scale

 

8. Can FAK vary by shipowner and route?

Yes. FAK conditions depend on commercial negotiations, operational availability, the specific sea route used and each shipowner’s rules.

 

9. What risks are involved in negotiating FAK rates?

The main risks of FAKs involve:
▪ inconsistencies between the declared cargo and the cargo effectively shipped
▪ tariff reclassification
▪ additional charges
▪ demurrage
▪ detention
▪ operational surcharges

 

10. What items should be reviewed before contracting a FAK tariff?

It is important to assess:
▪ type of cargo
▪ density and weight
▪ sea route
▪ shipowner rules
▪ applicable surcharges
▪ need for special handling
▪ contractual conditions for operation

 

11. Is FAK only used in exports?

No. FAKs can be used in both maritime export and import operations, depending on commercial negotiations.

 

12. How can freight forwarders help with FAK negotiations?

A specialized freight forwarder helps assess tariff feasibility, operating conditions, shipowner restrictions and commercial risks involved in negotiating FAKs in maritime transport.