PORT OF BOSTON RAISES CONTAINER TARIFFS

PORT OF BOSTON RAISES CONTAINER TARIFFS    The Port of Boston will raise its container tariff rates, effective Dec. 1.
   “No terminal operator wants to increase rates, but like many organizations, Massport needs to cover operating costs and fund capital improvements in order to provide our customers with quality service,” said Michael A. Leone, port director for the Massachusetts Port Authority.
   So-called “usage rates” under the port’s Container Tariff #1, Rule (I) 034 increased as follows:
   * Containers under 26 feet — from $18 to $24 per container.
   * Containers over 26 feet — from $25 to $31 per container.
   * Non-container cargo — from $3.15 per ton to $3.65 per ton (with a minimum charge: $6.55 per bill of lading).
   The port has been faced with increased labor wages, investments in new equipment, and new systems and security costs at its Conley Terminal. “It is these investments in equipment and systems that enable us to remain competitive and attract and retain the services of major steamship companies,” Leone said.