The quotation method for domestic shipping is fundamentally different from that for foreign trade shipping. Only by understanding the cost structure can you accurately judge whether a quote is reasonable and avoid spending money unnecessarily.
1. What is ALL-IN one-price?
Domestic shipping quotes are typically an RMB ALL-IN one-price — one price that includes ocean freight, terminal charges, and taxes.
| Charge Item | Domestic shipping (ALL-IN price) | Foreign trade shipping (itemized price) |
|---|---|---|
| Ocean freight | ✅ Included | ❌ Listed separately |
| Terminal Handling Charge (THC) | ✅ Included | ❌ Listed separately |
| Port charges | ✅ Included | ❌ Listed separately |
| Customs declaration fee | Not applicable (no customs declaration required) | ❌ Listed separately |
| Trucking fee | ❌ Optional (extra for door-to-door) | ❌ Listed separately |
| Insurance fee | ❌ Recommended (charged separately) | ❌ Listed separately |
Key difference: The ALL-IN price for domestic shipping covers ocean freight + terminal handling charge + port charges, without the itemized fees common in foreign trade shipping such as "ocean freight + THC + DOC + SEAL + ISPS". Whatever you are quoted is exactly what you pay, with no hidden fees.
II. Main Factors Affecting Freight Costs
1. Route Distance
Freight is positively correlated with route distance:
| Route | Reference Distance | Freight Level |
|---|---|---|
| South China ↔ East China | ~1,500km | Baseline |
| South China ↔ North China | ~2,500km | 30-50% higher than East China |
| South China ↔ Northeast China | ~3,500km | Highest along the coast |
2. Container Type
| Container Type | Freight Level | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| 20GP | Baseline | For heavy cargo (>20 tons), choose 20GP for the lowest unit cost |
| 40GP | 1.5-1.8 times 20GP | For light bulky cargo, choose 40GP |
| 40HQ | 1.1-1.2 times 40GP | Essential for over-height cargo (>2.3m) |
3. Seasonality
| Time Period | Freight Rate Trend | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Peak season (Aug-Oct) | Increase by 20-40% | Year-end shipment peak, tight capacity |
| Shoulder season (Mar-Jul) | Normal level | Balanced supply and demand |
| Off season (around Chinese New Year) | Yearly low | Shipping companies lower prices to attract cargo |
4. Cargo Volume
- Heavy cargo (high density): Freight rate is relatively low when charged by ton
- Light bulky cargo (low density): Charged by volume, freight rate may be slightly higher
- Long-term cooperation: Customers with high shipping frequency can negotiate contract rates
3. Cost-Related Misconceptions
| Misconception | Fact |
|---|---|
| ❌ "Domestic sea freight is about the same as foreign trade sea freight" | ✅ Domestic sea freight is an all-in RMB price including tax, while foreign trade is itemized in USD excluding tax; the structures are completely different. |
| ❌ "20GP freight is half of 40GP" | ✅ 20GP freight is about 55-65% of 40GP, not a linear relationship. |
| ❌ "Door-to-door is more expensive than itemized ordering" | ✅ Usually the package price is cheaper because logistics companies have negotiated rates for trailer transport at both ends. |
Summary
Domestic shipping ALL-IN flat rate has a much simpler cost structure than foreign trade shipping — clear and transparent, with no hidden charges. Freight is mainly affected by four factors: route distance, container type, season, and cargo volume.
⚠️ Note: This article only explains the billing logic and does not list specific price figures. Actual freight is affected by multiple variables such as port, cargo volume, and container type, and must be determined by inquiry.
📖 Further Reading: International Shipping Handbook: Full Overview of Fee Structure (Reference for itemized international shipping quotes)
Extended reading: Basic Structure of International Container Transport Costs to see itemized international shipping fees; Common Shipping Surcharges and Their Meanings to identify surcharges in quotations; Factors Affecting Container Shipping Freight to understand freight rate fluctuations.
Domestic Sea Freight Cost FAQ
Q: With the ALL-IN flat rate, are there really no other fees?
A: The ALL-IN flat rate usually includes ocean freight, terminal handling charges, and port charges, but does not necessarily include optional services such as trucking fees and insurance fees. Before placing an order, it is recommended to confirm with the logistics company which items are included in the quotation and whether door-to-door service requires an additional trucking fee, to avoid unexpected expenses.
Q: Why do quotes for the same route vary so much at different times?
A: Freight rates are significantly affected by supply and demand — during peak season (August–October), space is tight and rates rise; during off-peak season (around Chinese New Year), shipping companies lower rates to attract cargo. In addition, route distance, container type, and cargo volume affect the final quote. It is recommended to request a quote based on the current period.
Bofeng Logistics specializes in one-stop logistics services including domestic container shipping, international shipping (FCL/LCL), Hong Kong and Macau logistics routes, and trucking, customs declaration, warehousing, etc. Contact number: 130-7567-8958 (Manager Huang), call now to get a customized quote!
Disclaimer: This article was compiled by the Bofeng Logistics team and verified as of August 2026. Ocean freight rates, surcharges, port charges and policies may change with market conditions and current carrier requirements; actual charges are subject to the rates published by the carrier or logistics provider at the time of booking.
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