Traffic Mitigation Fee (TMF) is a charge imposed at busy ports for pickups and drop-offs during peak periods. It encourages carriers and drayage providers to move containers during off-peak hours, like nights or weekends. This helps ease congestion, improve environmental conditions, and support extended gate operations.
In practice, this TMF fee must be paid by the cargo owner before the container is released from the port. Unpaid fees result in a “TMF hold,” which prevents the trucker from picking up the cargo and causes significant delays.
Not all ports impose TMF trucking fees. Beverage importers using major ports like Los Angeles and Long Beach frequently pay these fees to ensure their ingredients and products are delivered on schedule.
See Accessorial Charges or Fees