Pricing & Quotes
Understand how freight rates are structured, what is included in your quote, and how to get the best pricing for your shipments.
Pricing & Quotes
Common questions about how we price freight, what surcharges exist, and how to get a quote.
Ocean freight rates are calculated based on: container type and size (20ft, 40ft, 40ft HC), trade lane (origin port to destination port), current market conditions and carrier rates, and service type (port-to-port or door-to-door). Air freight rates use the higher of actual weight (kg) or volumetric weight (L×W×H÷6000), multiplied by the rate per kg for that lane. Ground freight uses weight, freight class, and lane distance for LTL, or a flat rate per mile/load for FTL. All quotes include itemized breakdowns.
View service →Our standard quote includes: origin freight (pickup to port/airport), export documentation, origin port/terminal charges (OBL, export customs), ocean or air freight, destination port charges, import customs clearance (entry filing, ISF, customs bond), and inland delivery to your door. Some items may be quoted separately: cargo insurance (Value Protect), storage beyond free time, examination fees, and any agency-specific permits (FDA, USDA). We clearly itemize every line so there are no surprises.
View service →No. We are committed to transparent, all-inclusive pricing. Our quotes itemize every charge before you confirm a booking. The only charges that may arise after booking are those driven by external events outside our control: CBP examination fees (charged by government), demurrage/detention from delays caused by the shipper or consignee, or storage if cargo is not picked up within free time. We alert you immediately if any unexpected charges arise and never add markup to pass-through government fees.
View service →BAF (Bunker Adjustment Factor) for ocean freight and FSC (Fuel Surcharge) for air freight are variable surcharges carriers apply to offset fuel cost fluctuations. These are industry-standard fees published by carriers and updated periodically (weekly for air, monthly for ocean). They are separate from the base freight rate. In our quotes, we clearly show the BAF/FSC as a separate line item based on current carrier rates at the time of quotation. If rates change between quote and booking, we notify you before confirming.
View service →Ocean and air freight rates typically surge during peak demand periods: pre-Chinese New Year (December–January), summer shipping peak (June–August), and pre-holiday season (September–October). During these periods, spot rates can increase 50–200% above off-peak levels, and space becomes limited. We recommend booking 4–6 weeks in advance during peak periods and considering contract rates for regular shippers. We monitor market conditions and proactively advise you when rates are expected to rise.
View service →Yes. Clients who commit to regular shipping volumes can access our contract rates, which are significantly lower than spot rates. Contract pricing typically requires a minimum monthly volume commitment and is locked in for 3–12 months. We also offer tiered pricing for large single shipments. For freight forwarders and logistics companies, our partnership program offers preferential rates in exchange for volume commitment. Contact us to discuss a pricing structure that fits your shipping patterns.
View service →A spot rate is a single-shipment price based on current market conditions — it fluctuates with supply and demand and is typically higher during peak season. A contract rate is an agreed price locked in for a defined period (usually quarterly or annually) in exchange for a minimum volume commitment. Contract rates provide price stability and are generally 10–30% lower than spot rates during peak periods. We recommend spot rates for occasional shippers and contract rates for businesses shipping regularly (monthly or more).
View service →Standard quotes are delivered within 24 business hours of receiving your shipment details (origin, destination, cargo description, weight/volume, and required service). For urgent quotes, we can often respond within 2–4 hours. To get an instant estimate, contact us via WhatsApp or use our quote request form. For project cargo or complex supply chain solutions, we may request a discovery call to ensure the quote is accurate and complete.
View service →Explore More Topics
Find answers in other FAQ categories.
Shipping & Transport
FCL vs LCL, transit times, incoterms, and choosing the right mode for cost-effective shipping.
View questions →Customs & Compliance
Import duties, HTS classification, customs bonds, and ISF filing requirements.
View questions →Tracking & Visibility
Real-time shipment tracking, ETAs, delays, and how to stay informed about your cargo.
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