Parcel Freight provides instant pricing based on live data from partnered carriers. This allows users to view and compare freight costs before confirming a booking. Rates are calculated automatically using key shipment details and pre-configured carrier pricing rules.
How Pricing Is Calculated #
The system uses the following inputs to determine freight charges:
- Pickup and delivery postcodes
- Parcel dimensions (length, width, height)
- Weight (in kilograms)
- Number of items or cartons
- Service type (standard or express, if available)
- Any additional carrier-specific charges (e.g. regional delivery, manual handling)
These details are entered during the quoting process and used to return real-time rates from available carriers.
Cubic Weight vs Dead Weight #
Parcel Freight calculates freight charges using the greater of the two:
- Dead weight: The actual weight of the parcel
- Cubic weight: A volumetric calculation used to reflect the space a parcel occupies
Cubic weight formula:
Length × Width × Height (in cm) ÷ 4,000
For example, a parcel measuring 50 cm × 40 cm × 30 cm has a cubic weight of 15 kg.
If a parcel weighs 10 kg but its cubic weight is 15 kg, pricing will be based on 15 kg.
Pallet Pricing #
For palletised freight, pricing is based on:
- Weight of the pallet (up to 1,000 kg)
- Dimensions (up to 120 cm × 120 cm × 180 cm)
- Pickup and delivery locations
- Handling method (forklift-compatible)
Oversized or irregular pallet freight may not return rates automatically. In these cases, a manual quote may be required.
Additional Charges #
Some carriers may apply surcharges for:
- Remote area deliveries
- Residential addresses
- Manual handling
- Missed pickups
- Re-delivery requests
These charges are determined by the carrier and displayed where applicable during the quoting process.
GST and Invoicing #
All pricing shown includes GST. A tax invoice is provided upon booking and is accessible via your Parcel Freight dashboard.