Sea Freight Calculator
Estimate international sea freight costs using weight-or-measurement pricing, distance surcharges, and common port and documentation fees.
Shipment Details
Rates and Surcharges
How a Sea Freight Quote Is Calculated
Sea freight pricing typically follows the weight-or-measurement (W/M) rule. Carriers charge based on whichever is greater: the cargo weight in metric tons or the volume in cubic meters (CBM). The W/M value is then multiplied by the rate per W/M to create the base freight cost. From there, surcharges and fixed fees are added to produce the final landed freight estimate.
Key Inputs Explained
Weight (tons) and Volume (CBM) define the W/M basis. The calculator selects the higher of the two to reflect standard carrier billing practices. The Rate per W/M is your negotiated ocean rate. Distance surcharge captures long-route or canal-related charges when a carrier bills by nautical mile. Fuel surcharge is a percentage of base freight, while insurance applies to cargo value. Port and documentation fees cover terminal handling, security, and paperwork.
Formula Used
Chargeable Units (W/M) = max(Weight in tons, Volume in CBM)
Base Freight = Chargeable Units x Rate per W/M
Distance Surcharge = Distance (NM) x Distance Rate
Fuel Surcharge = Base Freight x Fuel %
Insurance = Cargo Value x Insurance %
Total Sea Freight = Base Freight + Distance Surcharge + Fuel Surcharge + Insurance + Port Fees + Documentation Fee
Example Calculation
A shipment weighs 12 tons and measures 18 CBM. The rate is $65 per W/M, the route is 6,000 nautical miles with a $0.02 per NM surcharge, fuel surcharge is 12%, cargo value is $85,000 with 0.6% insurance, port fees are $350, and documentation is $75.
Chargeable units are 18 W/M (volume is higher). Base freight is 18 x $65 = $1,170. Distance surcharge is 6,000 x $0.02 = $120. Fuel surcharge is 12% of $1,170 = $140.40. Insurance is 0.6% of $85,000 = $510. Total estimated sea freight is $2,365.40.
When to Use This Calculator
This calculator is ideal for budgeting ocean shipments, comparing carrier quotes, and forecasting landed costs for international trade. It aligns with typical LCL pricing structures and provides a clear breakdown of how charges build from the W/M basis to the final total.