In practice: war-risk surcharges are usually set per container or per TEU, announced with an effective date and changed at short notice. In March 2026 Xeneta reported war-risk charges of about US$2,000–4,000 per TEU on Gulf-bound cargo; actual levels differ by carrier and change over time. Ask for each emergency surcharge as a separate line with its source and validity.

Example: a quote lists “war-risk surcharge, per carrier notice, valid until 30 Nov” as its own line, separate from base freight. If the carrier changes it before booking, the new figure appears in the case file as a charge change that needs your approval.