1. FCL (Full Container Load) Freight Calculation
FCL is charged at a flat rate per container type, regardless of how much cargo is loaded inside:
Ocean Freight = Base Rate + Surcharges (BAF + PSS, etc.)2. LCL (Less than Container Load) Freight Calculation
LCL is charged by Revenue Ton (RT) — whichever is greater, weight or volume:
LCL Freight = Rate × MAX(Weight in tonnes, Volume in CBM)Example:
Cargo: 2.5 CBM / 1.2 tonnes, Rate: $55/RT
Revenue Ton = MAX(2.5, 1.2) = 2.5 RT
Ocean Freight = $55 × 2.5 = $137.503. Spot Rates vs. Contract Rates
| Comparison | Spot Rate | Contract Rate |
| Pricing Method | Real-time quotation per booking | Long-term contract rate (6 months to 1 year) |
| When market rises | Price increases | Locked in at low rate; unaffected |
| When market falls | Enjoy low market price | Higher than market (subject to MQC) |
| Space Guarantee | None (may have no space in peak season) | Yes (contractually guaranteed) |
| Suitable For | Businesses with unstable cargo volumes | Stable shippers averaging >50 TEU/month |
Need a real-time freight quotation? Contact us: 13075678958 | info@zhbfwl.com
📖 Further Reading: International Shipping Operations Manual, Parts 12–15 — freight calculation case studies, quotation interpretation, and cost control essentials (complements the cost structure principles in this article)
Data Note: Freight rate references are industry benchmark ranges; actual charges are subject to the quotation provided by the carrier or forwarder. Data current as of July 2026.
Related Logistics Services
Bofeng Logistics offers the following related services, feel free to inquire:
Knowledge Category
