Calculating shipping costs for outdoor furniture from an overseas factory involves several key factors. First, the exact dimensions and packed weight of your order are crucial. Most freight is charged by volume (cubic meters) or weight, whichever is greater. You'll need to know if your items will be shipped via Full Container Load (FCL) or Less than Container Load (LCL). FCL is often more cost-effective for large orders, while LCL shares container space with other cargo.
The chosen Incoterms (like FOB or CIF) define which costs you are responsible for. Typically, factory prices are FOB, meaning you pay for the main ocean freight, insurance, and destination port charges. These destination charges include customs clearance, duties, taxes, and local trucking (door-to-door delivery). Always request a comprehensive quote from your freight forwarder that includes all these legs. Using an online freight calculator with your cargo details and destination port can provide a reliable estimate for planning your budget.
