What is the setup fee?

The setup fee is a one-time charge applied when ordering new entry-level plans, for example a Cloud or Storage VPS 10 on short-term contracts.
This helps us keep our base prices stable, particularly in the context of rapidly increasing RAM and hardware costs. The fee does not apply to 12-month contracts.

Why is there a setup fee?

Due to rising costs in hosting equipment and RAM, we’ve introduced a small setup fee for short-term, entry-level plans.

Instead of increasing monthly prices across all products, this approach allows us to:

• Keep our base prices among the lowest in the market

• Apply the cost only where it is necessary

• Maintain our price-to-performance advantage

Which products are affected?

The setup fee applies only to entry-level Cloud and Storage VPS 10 purchased for 1-month and 6-month contract terms. 

All other plans (VPS 20 and above) and longer contract durations do not include a setup fee.

Does this affect my existing server or contract?

No.
The setup fee applies only to new orders placed after April 15, 2026.

Your current services and pricing remain unchanged.

Is the setup fee recurring?

No.
It is a one-time charge and will not be billed again during renewals or future billing cycles.

How can I avoid the setup fee?

You can avoid the setup fee by:

• Choosing a longer contract term (12 months or more), or

• Selecting a higher VPS plan (VPS 20 or above)

These options also typically offer a lower monthly price.

Why not include the cost in the monthly price?

We believe in transparent pricing.

Instead of increasing monthly costs for all customers, we:

• Keep monthly prices low and predictable

• Clearly show any one-time costs upfront

• Give you the option to avoid the fee entirely

For the current rate of the setup fees, please see the Contabo VPS page.