In air freight quotations, you'll often encounter a common symbol—the plus sign ("+"). This notation indicates weights exceeding a specific threshold, typically measured in kilograms. For example, "100+" denotes shipments weighing more than 100 kg. This simple symbol plays a crucial role in air cargo cost calculations.
Tiered Pricing Structure
Air freight rates typically follow a tiered pricing model, with common weight brackets including "45+", "100+", and "200+" kilograms. Each bracket corresponds to different price points per kilogram. This pricing structure enables freight forwarders to provide accurate quotes based on both the actual weight and dimensions of shipments.
Two Pricing Methods
Air cargo pricing primarily operates through two calculation methods:
- Dense Cargo (Weight-based): Pricing based on actual weight in kilograms
- Volumetric Cargo (Dimensional Weight): Pricing based on calculated volume when dimensional weight exceeds physical weight. The standard formula is: (Length × Width × Height in cm) ÷ 5000 (previously 6000), with the higher value between this result and actual weight determining the chargeable weight.
Strategic Importance
Understanding the implications of the "+" symbol in air freight allows shippers to:
- Accurately estimate transportation costs
- Optimize packaging to qualify for favorable weight brackets
- Make informed decisions when comparing carrier options
- Plan shipments to benefit from volume discounts
This knowledge becomes particularly valuable when shipping large or heavy consignments, where small adjustments in weight can significantly impact total freight costs. Industry professionals recommend reviewing weight brackets with freight forwarders during the planning stage to identify potential cost-saving opportunities.
