Legal Definitions - wharfage

Definition: Wharfage is a fee that is paid for the use of a wharf for loading, unloading, or landing goods. It can also refer to the facilities provided for these activities on a wharf.

Examples:

• A shipping company pays wharfage to the port authority for using the wharf to unload their cargo.
• A fisherman pays wharfage to the owner of the wharf for using the facilities to unload their catch.

These examples illustrate how wharfage is a fee paid for the use of a wharf for loading, unloading, or landing goods. It is a common practice in ports and harbors where ships and boats need a place to dock and transfer their cargo. The fee helps to maintain and improve the facilities on the wharf, making it easier and safer for businesses and individuals to conduct their activities.