Reminder: Security Deposit applicable for cross-border imports in the Gulf region
As previously outlined in our advisory dated March 15, 2026, please be informed that a Security Deposit (SD), as well as a Drop Off Fee, are applicable to all cross-border import shipments under merchant haulage in the Gulf region.
The Security Deposit (SD) has been standardized across all applicable countries and will apply to all container types as follows:
- 20' General Purpose: USD 3,000 per container
- 40' General Purpose: USD 5,500 per container
- Special (Reefer and OOG): USD 15,000 per container
This charge applies to all relevant shipments until further notice.
For credit customers, a rolling Security Deposit (SD) may be established based on weekly volume to reduce repetitive refund cycles.
Drop-off Fees and Free Time
Drop-off fees are non-negotiable and vary by destination.
For all Merchant Haulage moves, 10 calendar days of free time (ADFT) apply at the respective port. After the free time expires, a flat rate of USD 25 per container per day will be charged.
| Destination | Drop-off Fee (Dry) | Drop-off Fee (Reefer/Special) |
|---|---|---|
| UAE | USD 800 | USD 1,500 |
| Bahrain | USD 800 | USD 3,000 |
| Qatar | USD 500 | USD 3,000 |
| Kuwait | USD 1,500 | USD 3,000 |
| Iraq (via Umm Qasr) | USD 3,000 | USD 5,000 |
Payment Protocols
Payment Locations
- Deposits can be paid at:
- Port of Loading
- Port of Discharge
- Merchant Haulage location (Port of Acceptance or Port of Delivery)
- Method of Payment:
Security deposits must be paid via wire transfer only. - Mandatory Reference:
The shipment number must be included in the transfer reference field:
SD – [Shipment Number] (e.g., SD-1234567) - Payment Allocation (Bifurcation):
If the SD is paid together with other charges, a detailed payment breakdown must be shared with the assigned contact. - Currency Conversion:
Payments must follow the daily fixed exchange rates provided by Hapag-Lloyd when converting from USD to local currency.
Refund Process and Documentation
Refund requests must be submitted to:
[email protected]
[email protected]
Required Documents:
- Refund request on company letterhead
- Proof of payment (original SD receipt or bank confirmation)
- Equipment Interchange Receipt (EIR) copy
- Bank details (cancelled cheque or AMC certificate)
- NOC letter (if claimant differs from original payer)
Turnaround Time (TAT)
Refunds are typically processed within 5 business days, subject to:
- Receipt of complete documentation
- Internal approvals
- Verification of any outstanding balances
If you require more information, please contact our customer service team at your location who will guide you based on your individual situation.