Pallet Shipping Rate Calculator
Base Pallet Charge:
0.00
Distance Charge:
0.00
Fuel Surcharge:
0.00
Additional Fees:
0.00
Estimated Total:
$0.00
How to Calculate Pallet Shipping Rates
Calculating the cost of shipping pallets involves several variables that logistics companies use to determine the final invoice. Unlike standard parcel shipping, palletized freight (often referred to as LTL or Less Than Truckload) relies on a combination of volume, weight, and distance.
The Core Components of Pallet Pricing:
- Base Pallet Rate: This is a flat fee charged per pallet position used in the trailer.
- Mileage Rate: Long-haul shipments often include a cost per mile based on the distance between the origin and destination ZIP codes.
- Freight Class: Determined by density, stowability, handling, and liability. Higher classes (like electronics) cost more to ship than lower classes (like bricks).
- Fuel Surcharge: A percentage added to the base rate to compensate for fluctuating diesel prices.
- Accessorials: Extra services such as residential delivery, liftgate requirements, or inside delivery.
Typical Example Calculation
If you are shipping 5 pallets with a base rate of $80 per pallet, traveling 300 miles at $1.20 per mile, with a 12% fuel surcharge and a $50 liftgate fee:
- Base Charge: 5 x $80 = $400
- Distance Charge: 300 x $1.20 = $360
- Subtotal: $400 + $360 = $760
- Fuel Surcharge: 12% of $760 = $91.20
- Total: $760 + $91.20 + $50 = $901.20
Standard Pallet Dimensions
In North America, the standard pallet size is 48″ x 40″. When using a pallet rate calculator, ensure your freight does not overhang the edges, as this may result in being charged for two pallet positions instead of one. Height also matters; most carriers have a maximum height limit of 96 inches for standard LTL trailers.