THC
THC stands for Terminal Handling Charges, which are fees charged by port terminals for handling containers and cargo. When you see this term in resumes or job descriptions, it refers to managing, calculating, or working with these port fees. These charges cover the cost of moving containers between ships and the port yard, including loading, unloading, and temporary storage. Understanding THC is important in shipping and logistics roles because it's a significant part of overall shipping costs that companies need to manage.
Examples in Resumes
Reduced THC costs by 15% through negotiating better rates with terminal operators
Managed and optimized Terminal Handling Charges for a fleet of 50 container vessels
Developed new procedures for tracking and reporting THC expenses across multiple global ports
Typical job title: "Shipping Cost Analysts"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Shipping Cost Analysts
Professional Networks
Industry Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you develop a strategy to reduce THC costs across multiple international ports?
Expected Answer: A strong answer should include negotiating with terminal operators, analyzing port costs trends, understanding volume commitments, and implementing tracking systems to monitor expenses.
Q: Describe your experience with managing THC disputes and contract negotiations.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate experience in reviewing terminal agreements, handling billing discrepancies, and successful negotiation of rates with terminal operators.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors affect Terminal Handling Charges?
Expected Answer: Should mention container type, port location, peak season surcharges, container weight, and special handling requirements.
Q: How do you track and report THC expenses?
Expected Answer: Should explain methods for monitoring costs, using shipping software, creating reports, and identifying cost-saving opportunities.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is THC and why is it important in shipping?
Expected Answer: Should explain that THC are port terminal fees for handling containers and their impact on overall shipping costs.
Q: What documentation is typically required for THC billing?
Expected Answer: Should mention terminal receipts, container numbers, billing documents, and basic understanding of shipping documentation.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of shipping documentation
- Knowledge of THC components
- Simple cost tracking
- Basic report preparation
Mid (2-5 years)
- THC cost analysis
- Terminal operator negotiations
- Budget management
- Process optimization
Senior (5+ years)
- Strategic cost management
- Contract negotiation
- Team leadership
- Implementation of cost-saving initiatives
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic shipping terms and documentation
- Lack of experience with cost analysis
- Poor understanding of terminal operations
- No experience with shipping software systems
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