In international logistics, understanding how shipping fees are calculated is crucial for businesses and individuals alike. Before diving into fee calculation, we first clarify some key concepts.
Types of Weight
International express charges are typically based on weight, which can be categorized into:
- Actual Weight: The total weight of the shipment including packaging, also known as gross weight.
- Volumetric (Dimensional) Weight: For shipments that are large in volume but light in weight, carriers convert volume into equivalent weight to optimize space utilization. Such shipments are often called “light and bulky”.
- Chargeable Weight: The weight used to calculate shipping fees, usually the greater of actual weight and volumetric weight.
Unit of Chargeable Weight
In international express shipping, the minimum chargeable weight unit is generally 0.5 kg, meaning weights are rounded up in increments of 0.5 kg.
Base Weight and Additional Weight
Shipping fees are divided into base (first) weight and additional (continuation) weight fees. The first 0.5 kg or 1 kg counts as the base weight with a set fee, while every subsequent 0.5 kg or 1 kg is charged as additional weight. Typically, base weight fees are higher than additional weight fees.
Packaging Fees
Most express companies provide free packaging materials such as boxes and bubble wrap. However, for fragile or valuable items requiring special packaging, additional packaging fees may apply. These fees are not subject to discounts.
Remote Area Surcharge
Shipments sent to remote locations incur extra charges known as remote area surcharges.
Example (DHL remote fee):
- Below 50 kg (minimum): 180 × (1 + fuel surcharge rate) ¥
- Above 50 kg: 3.6 × weight (kg) × (1 + fuel surcharge rate) ¥
Customs Clearance Fees
For example, UPS charges customs clearance fees as follows:
- Up to 300 kg: 200 HKD
- Above 300 kg: 200 HKD + (weight – 300 kg) × 6.8 HKD
General Freight Calculation Formula
A) For shipments where actual weight > volumetric weight
Shipping cost = base weight fee + (weight (kg) × 2 – 1) × additional weight fee
Example: A 7 kg shipment with base fee ¥20 and additional fee ¥9 results in total:
20 + (7 × 2 -1) × 9 = ¥137
B) For shipments where volumetric weight > actual weight
Calculate volumetric weight first:
- Regular shape: Length(cm) × Width(cm) × Height(cm) ÷ 6000 = volumetric weight (kg)
- Irregular shape: Longest(cm) × Widest(cm) × Highest(cm) ÷ 6000 = volumetric weight (kg)
Then apply the same formula as above.
Fuel Surcharge
International express often adds a fuel surcharge, usually calculated together with the freight fee and sometimes discounted.
For example, if fuel surcharge is 9%, total cost = freight cost × (1 + 9%)
Total Cost Formula
Total cost = (Freight + Fuel Surcharge) × Discount + Packaging Fees + Other fees (customs clearance, remote area surcharge, etc.)
Special Notes on EMS
EMS charges only by actual weight and does not apply fuel surcharges or customs clearance fees.
Volume Weight Calculation Differences for Air and Express Freight
- Express freight volume weight = Length(cm) × Width(cm) × Height(cm) ÷ 5000
- Air freight volume weight = Length(cm) × Width(cm) × Height(cm) ÷ 6000
GoNest Shipping Cost Calculation Example for USA Routes
To better illustrate GoNest’s shipping cost structure from China to the US, here are two common shipping routes and their pricing details based on a 10 kg shipment.
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A) US Economy Sea Freight General Goods Line
- Base Weight Fee: ¥129.00 (1kg included)
- Additional Weight Fee: ¥28.00 per kg
- Billing Rule: Base weight 1 kg, additional by 1 kg increments
- Example: 10 kg shipment = 129 + (10 – 1) × 28 = ¥381.00
- Supported Goods: General goods
This sea freight option is cost-effective for non-urgent shipments, providing affordable shipping from China to the US.
B) US Air Freight Special Goods Dedicated Line [Express]
- Base Weight Fee: ¥171.00 (0.5kg included)
- Additional Weight Fee: ¥59.00 per 0.5kg
- Billing Rule: Base weight 0.5 kg, additional by 0.5 kg increments
- Example: 10 kg shipment = 171 + ((10 – 0.5) ÷ 0.5) × 59 = ¥1292.00
- Supported Goods: Special goods requiring expedited delivery
This air freight service offers a faster delivery option from China to the US, ideal for urgent or valuable shipments.
Why Choose GoNest Freight Forwarder from China to US?
GoNest specializes in providing transparent, competitive shipping rates combined with reliable service across major shipping routes including air freight and sea freight from China to the US. Whether you need economical sea freight for bulk cargo or fast air freight for time-sensitive goods, GoNest can tailor solutions to fit your needs.
