How is ocean freight calculated?
Quick answerFCL: flat rate per container (20GP/40GP/40HQ) + surcharges. LCL: revenue ton = max(CBM, tonnes), usually with a 1 RT minimum. Total cost = ocean freight + BAF/PSS + origin local charges + destination THC/clearance/delivery. A cheap ocean rate with expensive destination charges is the most common trap.
FCL versus LCL maths
FCL: 1×40HQ at USD 3,500 costs USD 3,500 whether you load 40 m³ or 70 m³.
LCL: 8 CBM at USD 60/RT = USD 480 ocean freight, plus documentation, CFS and destination charges.
Crossover point is usually around 12–15 CBM depending on destination charges.
What else enters the bill
Surcharges: BAF, PSS, GRI, low-sulphur, war risk — can add 10–40%.
Origin charges: export customs, THC, trucking, documentation.
Destination charges: THC, CFS, clearance, delivery, demurrage if late.
| Component | FCL | LCL |
|---|---|---|
| Basis | per container | per revenue ton |
| Minimum | n/a | usually 1 RT |
| Typical use | >15 m³ | <15 m³ |
| Destination charges | per container | per shipment + per RT |
Frequently asked questions
- Why is my LCL total higher than quoted?
- LCL quotes usually cover ocean freight only; CFS, documentation and destination charges are added separately.
- Does a full container cost less per m³?
- Yes — above roughly 15 m³, FCL is nearly always cheaper on a per-m³ basis.
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Related
Source: Juhe Zhuang rate platform (jhz56.com) market data and carrier documentation. Figures are reference ranges, not transaction prices; verify with your forwarder before booking.