Harbor Maintenance Fees (HMF)

Harbor Maintenance Fees (HMF) are charges imposed by the U.S. government on importers, domestic shippers, and passengers using ports, to fund the maintenance and improvement of the country’s harbor infrastructure.
Harbor Maintenance Fees are collected to support the upkeep and enhancement of U.S. ports, ensuring they remain efficient and capable of handling the demands of maritime commerce. The fees are typically assessed at a rate based on the value of the cargo being shipped through the ports. These funds are used for dredging, maintaining, and upgrading port facilities to ensure safe and efficient navigation for commercial vessels. The HMF applies to cargo imported into the United States, as well as certain domestic shipments and cruise passengers. Effective port maintenance funded by HMF contributes to the smooth operation of supply chains, supporting the overall economy by facilitating trade and transportation.