Freight costs are the costs incurred when transporting goods between sender and recipient. They consist of various individual items such as means of transport, distance, weight, or additional services.
In practice, freight costs are often made up of several components: base price, surcharges (e.g., for express delivery or hazardous goods), toll costs, fuel surcharges, and possibly handling fees. These items make the calculation complex and individual.
Transportation companies usually calculate freight costs using rates based on distance and weight. Seasonal fluctuations, market prices, and capacity utilization also influence the price. Digital tools now help with the automated calculation of freight costs in real time.
Transparency is particularly important for the sender. Many freight forwarders now offer online calculators to determine freight costs in advance. This way, unpleasant surprises can be avoided and alternatives – for example, between standard and express shipping – can be explored.
