Pricing
How courier rates are calculated
Two parcels of the same weight can cost very different amounts. Here is what actually decides the price.
1. Chargeable weight
Courier companies charge the higher of the actual weight and the volumetric weight. Weight is usually rounded up to the next 0.5 kg.
2. Destination
Each country sits in a pricing zone. The Gulf is closer and cheaper than North America or Australia.
3. Service level
Express costs more than economy because it flies on the next available departure and is handled separately. Economy shares space in consolidated shipments.
4. Duties and taxes
If you choose duties paid, the estimated duty and tax for the destination are added to your rate.
5. Extras
- Insurance, as a percentage of declared value
- Remote-area delivery surcharges in some postcodes
- Fuel surcharges set by airlines and carriers, which change monthly
- Packing materials if we pack for you
How to pay less
- Use the smallest box that protects the contents
- Vacuum-pack clothing
- Choose economy for heavy parcels without a deadline
- Send one larger parcel rather than several small ones; per-kg rates fall as weight rises
