Shipping from China: what per-kg really means

Per-kg rates are not comparable across quotes until you know which kilograms are being charged — actual or volumetric.

Chargeable weight is the number that matters

Couriers charge the greater of actual weight and volumetric weight. Volumetric weight is length times width times height divided by a divisor the carrier sets — often 5000 or 6000 in centimetres. A light, bulky parcel is therefore charged as if it were heavy, and repacking tightly lowers the bill.

Why two quotes differ on the same box

• Different volumetric divisors.
• Different minimum charges — small parcels are often priced at a floor.
• Fuel and handling surcharges added after the headline rate.
• Different service levels: door-to-door versus airport-to-airport.
• Battery, liquid or branded-goods restrictions that force a different lane.

The questions that make quotes comparable

1. What is the volumetric divisor you use?
2. What is the minimum chargeable weight for this lane?
3. Are fuel, handling and remote-area surcharges included in the number?
4. Is this door-to-door, and are duties excluded or included?
5. What is the transit time range, not the best case?

Two quotes that answer those five the same way can be compared on price. Two that do not are not the same product.

Common questions

Is sea freight cheaper per kg?

Per kg yes, but minimum volumes and port fees usually make it uneconomic below about a cubic metre.

What divisor should I use when estimating?

Ask the forwarder. Assuming 6000 when they use 5000 underestimates the bill by a fifth.

Are duties part of the per-kg quote?

Usually not, unless the quote says delivered duty paid.