What are interchange fees under the UIIA?

1. What is the UIIA?
The UIIA (Uniform Intermodal Interchange and Facilities Access Agreement) is a standard agreement that governs the use, interchange, and access of intermodal equipment—like containers and chassis—between motor carriers, railroads, and equipment providers.

2. What are interchange fees?
Interchange fees are charges applied when intermodal equipment—such as containers or chassis—is picked up, dropped off, or held beyond the allowed free time at a terminal. They are intended to compensate equipment owners for use, storage, or delayed return.

3. Who pays interchange fees?
The motor carrier or operator handling the equipment is responsible for paying interchange fees if they exceed the free time or violate the interchange agreement.

4. How are interchange fees calculated?
Fees are typically based on:
The number of days equipment is held beyond the allowed free time
The type of equipment (container, chassis, specialized chassis, etc.)
Terminal or equipment provider-specific rates

5. What is “free time” under the UIIA?
Free time is the period during which a carrier can use or store intermodal equipment without paying fees. Free time varies by equipment provider and terminal but is generally 48–72 hours for standard equipment.

6. What happens if equipment is returned late?
Late returns may result in:
Daily or hourly interchange fees
Penalties assessed by the equipment owner
Potential impact on the carrier’s access or privileges

7. Do interchange fees apply to all UIIA participants?
Yes. Any carrier using equipment under the UIIA is subject to interchange fees if the equipment is held beyond the agreed-upon free time or if other agreement rules are violated.

8. Are there ways to reduce interchange fees?
Return equipment within the free time period
Plan pickup and drop-off schedules carefully
Communicate delays with terminals or equipment providers
Track equipment usage and deadlines using software or logs

9. Are interchange fees refundable?
Typically no. Fees are assessed based on actual equipment use and late returns. Some disputes may be resolved with terminals if there are extenuating circumstances.

10. Why are interchange fees important?
Interchange fees incentivize timely handling of equipment, help manage terminal congestion, and ensure fair compensation for equipment owners while keeping operations smooth across the intermodal network.

11. What’s the key takeaway?
Interchange fees under the UIIA are charges for holding or misusing intermodal equipment beyond the agreed free time. Understanding these fees and planning equipment use carefully helps carriers avoid unnecessary costs and maintain smooth terminal access.