Cross-Border Freight Shipping Costs

Understand freight shipping costs and learn how to optimize your logistics budget. This guide covers rate factors, pricing structures, and strategies for reducing cross-border freight costs.

Freight Rate Factors

Weight and Dimensions: Heavier and larger shipments cost more. LTL freight uses freight class based on density. Distance: Longer routes have higher rates. Route popularity affects pricing. Service Type: Expedited costs more than standard. FTL vs LTL pricing differences. Equipment: Special equipment (reefer, flatbed) costs more than standard dry vans. Accessorial Services: Liftgate, inside delivery, residential add fees.

LTL vs FTL Pricing

LTL (Less Than Truckload): Pay for space used, rates based on weight and freight class, better for smaller shipments (150-15,000 lbs). FTL (Full Truckload): Pay for entire trailer, better for shipments over 15,000 lbs, lower cost per pound for large volumes.

Additional Costs

Customs Brokerage: Clearance fees for cross-border shipments. Duties and Taxes: Applicable on imports. Fuel Surcharges: Variable based on fuel prices. Accessorial Charges: Special services and handling.

Cost Reduction Strategies

Consolidate shipments to reduce per-unit costs. Use LTL for smaller shipments instead of expedited couriers. Plan ahead to avoid expedited premiums. Optimize packaging to reduce dimensional weight. Ensure proper freight classification to avoid reclassification charges. Use USMCA to eliminate duties on qualifying goods.

Key Features

Rate calculation examples
LTL freight class table
Cost comparison: LTL vs FTL
Accessorial charges list
Cost optimization checklist
Quote request tool

Frequently Asked Questions

How are freight rates calculated?

Rates consider weight, dimensions, distance, service type, equipment needs, and any special handling requirements. LTL also uses freight class based on density and handling characteristics.

What is a fuel surcharge?

Fuel surcharges are variable fees added to freight rates to account for fluctuating fuel prices. They're typically calculated as a percentage of the base rate and adjust weekly or monthly.

How can I get a freight quote?

Contact us with shipment details including origin, destination, weight, dimensions, and any special requirements. We'll provide competitive quotes from multiple carriers.

Cross-Border Freight Shipping Costs Guide