Jess this is exactly what happened to us.
When I repeatedly queried the charges they were separated into MAF fees and rest of the extortionate charges were suddenly called disbursements, although no one would tell me what those disbursements were for. To the point of telling me to go away, not nicely.
Terminal handling charge wasn't itemised on our bill though. Thats sounds like something that should be included at time of shipping quote.
What a coincidence this happened when you checked your contract and found you shouldn't be paying the charges.
<-----------confused and a little sarcastic smiley.
At the end of the day they had our stuff,cars and bikes and whilst we put up a fight, we were stuck.
Tell the shippers that you will pay MAF directly either at the house or ask for a separate invoice
FROM MAF. MAF told me there charges were lower than what we had to pay the shippers.
Was it NZ Van Lines?