How Air Cargo Pricing Works
Air cargo is charged per kilogram based on chargeable weight (the greater of actual or volumetric weight). Rates typically follow a 'first kg + additional kg' structure: the first kilogram has a higher rate covering fixed costs (handling, documentation, airport fees), and each additional kilogram has a lower rate. Rates vary by destination, with closer destinations (UAE) being cheaper per kg than distant ones (Australia, USA).
How Sea Freight Pricing Works
Sea freight LCL is charged per cubic meter (CBM) with a minimum charge of typically 1 CBM. FCL is charged per container: 20ft, 40ft, or 40ft HC. Sea freight is significantly cheaper than air cargo for large shipments — typically 60-80% less per kg equivalent. However, sea freight has minimum charges that make it uneconomical for very small shipments. The break-even point is usually around 100-150kg.
Factors That Affect Cargo Rates
Several factors determine your shipping rate: destination country and city (major hubs are cheaper than remote areas), weight and dimensions (chargeable weight), service level (express > standard > economy), season (peak season rates are higher), fuel prices (fuel surcharges fluctuate with oil prices), carrier capacity (limited capacity = higher rates), and shipment type (commercial vs personal, hazardous goods, temperature-controlled).
Fuel Surcharges
Fuel surcharges are additional charges that fluctuate with global oil prices. They're applied by airlines and shipping lines and passed through to the customer. Fuel surcharges can add 5-15% to the base rate and change monthly. When comparing quotes, always ask if fuel surcharges are included or additional. Our quotes include all applicable surcharges.
Customs Duties and Taxes
Customs duties and taxes are charged by the destination country, not by the shipping company. They're based on: the HS code of your goods, the declared value, and the country of origin (GSP+ and FTA preferences can reduce or eliminate duty). VAT/GST is also applied by most countries (20% UK, 19% Germany, 5% UAE, 10% Australia). Duties and taxes are typically paid by the receiver, not the sender. We calculate estimated duties and taxes for your shipment.
Additional Costs to Consider
Beyond the base freight rate, additional costs may include: customs clearance fees (at destination), door-to-door delivery within the destination country (if not included), insurance (1-2% of declared value), packing and documentation (included in our service), remote area surcharges, oversized/overweight surcharges, hazardous goods handling fees, and storage fees if the shipment isn't collected promptly at destination.
Door-to-Door Pricing
Door-to-door pricing includes: pickup from your location in Pakistan, packing, export customs, international freight, destination customs clearance, and delivery to the recipient's address. It's the most convenient option but may cost slightly more than port-to-port or airport-to-airport service. We provide transparent door-to-door quotes with no hidden charges.
How to Get the Best Shipping Rate
To minimize shipping costs: compare air vs sea (sea is cheaper for large shipments), consolidate multiple shipments into one (better per-unit rate), book early to avoid peak season surcharges, use the smallest possible packaging (reduces volumetric weight), declare accurate weight to avoid re-weighing charges, and ask about volume discounts if you ship regularly. We provide free, no-obligation quotes with cost optimization advice.
Why You Should Request a Quote
Every shipment is unique — rates depend on your specific origin, destination, weight, dimensions, contents, and service level. Rather than publishing generic rates that may not apply to your situation, we provide custom quotes tailored to your exact shipment. Contact us at 03719226245 with your shipment details for an accurate, no-obligation quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why don't you publish rates online?
Cargo rates depend on many factors: destination, weight, dimensions, service level, season, and fuel prices. Publishing generic rates would be misleading. We provide accurate, custom quotes based on your specific shipment details.
Are customs duties included in the shipping cost?
No. Shipping costs cover freight, handling, and insurance. Customs duties and taxes at the destination are charged by the destination government and are typically paid by the receiver. We can estimate duties for your shipment.
Is insurance included in the shipping cost?
Basic coverage is included, but we recommend full-value insurance for high-value shipments. Insurance costs are typically 1-2% of the declared value. We provide exact insurance costs with your quote.
What is the cheapest way to ship internationally?
For large shipments (over 100kg), sea freight LCL is cheapest. For small parcels (under 30kg), air cargo or express courier is more economical. We compare options and recommend the most cost-effective service for your shipment.
Need help with your shipment?
Contact Haideri International Cargo for a free quote and expert assistance.