LBC Shipping Rate Estimator
Package Dimensions & Weight
Estimated Shipping Cost
*Disclaimer: Rates are estimates only. Actual LBC branch rates may vary based on specific item classification and fuel surcharges.
Understanding the LBC Calculator Rate: How Your Shipping is Calculated
Shipping packages within the Philippines or internationally requires an understanding of how logistics companies like LBC Express determine their pricing. The LBC calculator rate isn't just about how heavy a box is; it involves a complex interplay of geography, volume, and value.
1. Actual Weight vs. Volumetric Weight
One of the most common reasons for price discrepancies at the LBC counter is Volumetric Weight. LBC uses a standard formula to determine how much space your package takes up in their transport vehicles:
Volumetric Weight (kg) = (Length x Width x Height in cm) / 3500
LBC will charge you based on whichever is higher between the actual weight and the volumetric weight. This is why a large box filled with cotton might cost more to ship than a small, heavy box of lead.
2. Zonal Pricing Logic
The Philippines is divided into major zones: Metro Manila (NCR), Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. The rate increases based on the distance between the origin and destination. Intrazonal shipments (e.g., NCR to NCR) are the most affordable, while inter-island shipments (e.g., Luzon to Mindanao) carry higher base rates due to air or sea freight costs.
3. Valuation and Insurance Charges
LBC requires a declared value for all shipments. This is used to calculate the Valuation Charge, which serves as your insurance. Typically, LBC charges a minimum valuation fee for items valued at PHP 500 or below. For items exceeding this value, an additional percentage (usually around 1% to 2% depending on the current policy) is added to the total shipping fee to cover potential loss or damage.
How to Save on LBC Shipping Rates
- Use the Right Packaging: Choose a box that fits your item snugly. Excess space increases volumetric weight and costs you more.
- Pouch vs. Box: If your item fits in an LBC N-Pack (small, large, or XL pouches), use those. They often have fixed rates regardless of weight, provided the item fits the pouch dimensions.
- Consolidate Shipments: Shipping three items in one box is often cheaper than shipping three separate smaller boxes due to the base fee applied to every individual tracking number.
Calculation Example
If you are shipping a 2kg laptop from Metro Manila to Cebu (Visayas) in a box measuring 40cm x 30cm x 10cm, with a declared value of PHP 20,000:
- Actual Weight: 2 kg
- Volumetric Weight: (40 * 30 * 10) / 3500 = 3.42 kg
- Billable Weight: 3.42 kg (rounded up to 3.5 or 4kg depending on branch rounding)
- Valuation: Calculated based on the PHP 20,000 value.