FINBIZTOOLS
Shipping Cost Calculator
Estimate the shipping cost of a parcel from a base rate, a per-kilogram rate and the package weight, with an optional surcharge for fuel or handling.
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Changes the currency symbol and number format only. Amounts are not converted.
How to use the Shipping Cost Calculator
- Enter the base rate and the rate per kg.
- Enter the package weight in kilograms.
- Open Advanced assumptions to add a surcharge percentage, if any.
- Select Calculate to see the shipping cost.
Use the currency selector above the inputs to change the symbol. It changes the display only and does not convert amounts.
A simple linear shipping model
Many carriers price a parcel as a fixed base charge plus a charge per kilogram, sometimes with a percentage surcharge on top.
This calculator uses exactly that simple structure and nothing more, so treat it as an estimate.
How the calculation works
Shipping Cost Calculator formula
Cost before surcharge = Base rate + Rate per kg × Weight
Shipping cost = Cost before surcharge × (1 + Surcharge)
- Rates are in your own currency.
- Surcharge is entered as a percentage.
It does not apply a carrier’s zones, dimensional weight or exact surcharge tables.
Shipping Cost Calculator example
A base rate of 50, 20 per kg, 2.5 kg and a 10% surcharge:
| Base rate | 50 |
|---|---|
| Rate per kg | 20 |
| Weight (kg) | 2.5 |
| Surcharge | 10% |
| Weight | 2.50 |
|---|---|
| Cost before surcharge | 100 |
| Shipping cost | 110 |
Amounts are shown without a currency symbol because the arithmetic is identical in any currency; the currency selector only changes the symbol and number format.
Assumptions and limitations
Assumptions
- Rates are linear in weight.
- The surcharge applies to the whole pre-surcharge cost.
Limitations and why results can differ
- Real carriers may charge by dimensional weight, distance or service level.
- It does not include taxes or insurance.
Frequently asked questions
Will this match my carrier’s price?
Not necessarily. Carriers use zones and dimensional weight that this simple model does not.
What is a base rate?
A fixed charge applied to every parcel regardless of weight.
Do I have to add a surcharge?
No. The surcharge is optional and defaults to zero.
Can I use pounds instead of kilograms?
Yes, if your per-unit rate is also per pound. The calculator only multiplies the numbers you enter.
Methodology
Inputs are validated as finite numbers within the ranges shown on the calculator, and division by zero is rejected. The result is computed directly from the formula on this page with no intermediate rounding beyond the stated display rounding.
The calculation runs in your browser and inputs are not sent to a server.
Last reviewed:
Disclaimer
Results are calculated estimates based on the figures you enter. They are not accounting, pricing, tax or legal advice. Verify important business and pricing decisions with your own records and a qualified professional. Read the full Disclaimer.
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