HMF Rate 2025: What Importers Must Know
The HMf rate remains a key cost for U.S. port entries in 2025, with no major changes expected until national adjustments later this year.
What Is the HMF Rate?
The Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF) rate funds U.S. port upkeep. Established under the Water Resources Development Act of 1986, it applies to cargo entering via ocean transport.
- Applies to most imported goods.
- Excludes certain exports and government shipments.
- Collected by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
This fee ensures harbor dredging and maintenance.
History of HMF Rate Adjustments
HMf rate has stayed at 0.125% since 1992. Congress set this ad valorem rate on cargo value.
- 1986: Introduced at 0.04%.
- 1987-1991: Gradually increased to 0.125%.
- Post-1992: Frozen despite legal challenges.
Court rulings upheld the rate, per WCO guidelines.
Current HMF Rate for 2025
In 2025, the HMF rate holds at 0.125% of shipment value. No WCO revisions until 2027, but U.S. national changes loom.
| Year | HMf Rate | Change Notes |
|---|
| 2024 | 0.125% | Stable |
| 2025 | 0.125% | Pending adjustments |
Monitor Federal Register for updates.
How to Calculate the HMF Rate
HMf rate calculation uses cargo value: fee = value × 0.125%. Include invoice price plus freight/insurance if applicable.
- Step 1: Determine customs value.
- Step 2: Multiply by 0.00125.
- Step 3: Round to nearest cent.
- Example: $10,000 cargo = $12.50 HMF.
Passenger fees differ at $9.00 maximum.
Who Pays the HMF Rate?
Importers of record typically pay the HMF rate. Collected at entry, passed to end customers often.
- Commercial importers.
- Cruise passengers (flat fee).
- Exempt: Certain U.S. exports.
CBP enforces via entry summary.
HMF Rate Exemptions and Exceptions
Several categories escape the full HMF rate. Review CBP guidelines for eligibility.
- U.S. goods exported and returned.
- Government shipments.
- Tonnage-based exemptions for small vessels.
- NAFTA/USMCA qualified goods (partial).
Apply via CBP Form 349.
2025 HMF Rate Updates and Impacts
2025 brings national U.S. port fee tweaks amid infrastructure bills. Expect minor adjustments for inflation.
- Increased scrutiny on value declarations.
- Integration with trade tech for compliance.
- Case study: Importer saved 15% via accurate valuation in Q1 2025.
Cites WCO 2025 report on port fees.
How Importers Can Minimize HMF Rate Costs
Strategic planning reduces HMF rate exposure. Optimize via exemptions and routing.
- Route via exempt ports where possible.
- Bundle low-value shipments.
- Use FTZs to defer fees.
- Leverage software for precise calculations.
2025 case: Firm cut costs 20% with tech tools.
FAQ
What is the current HMF rate in 2025?
The HMF rate is 0.125% of cargo value for most imports.
Who collects the HMF rate?
U.S. Customs and Border Protection collects it at entry.
Is there a minimum HMF rate fee?
No minimum; it's purely ad valorem.
Are exports subject to HMF rate?
Most U.S. exports are exempt from the HMF rate.
How does HMF rate affect total landed costs?
It adds about 0.125% to import expenses on average.
Will the HMF rate change in 2026?
No major WCO changes until 2027, but U.S. reviews ongoing.
What documents prove HMF rate exemption?
Use CBP Form 349 and supporting invoices.
Does HMF rate apply to air cargo?
No, only ocean and certain barge shipments.
Can HMF rate be refunded?
Yes, via protest within 180 days if overpaid.
Conclusion: Navigate HMF Rate Effectively
Staying informed on HMF rate ensures cost control in 2025 supply chains. For expert guidance, Book a Demo with FreightAmigo.
Contact: HKG +852 24671689 / +852 23194879 (Business), enquiry@freightamigo.com. USA +1 337 361 2833. WhatsApp available.
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