Understand your parcel delivery costs
The cost of shipping is influenced by many factors, starting with service type, weight and distance. Learn about the courier charges that add up to your total shipping price.
What factors determine the price of sending a parcel?
The key factors that define shipping costs are:
- Shipping service (delivery speed)
- Parcel weight and size
- Dimensional weight (volumetric weight)
- Distance to destination
- Duties and taxes
- Surcharges
How does the shipping service affect the price?
At FedEx, the base charge for moving a parcel from A to B is known as the shipping rate. The rate is determined by the shipping option you choose: the faster the delivery, the higher the price.
Delivery time frames are usually divided into:
Priority services
Time-specific shipping for delivery within precise time slots
Express services
Overnight and next day services for urgent shipments
Economy services
Standard delivery times often between 2-7 working days
What role do parcel weight and size play?
FedEx uses weight brackets to calculate shipping rates. For the EU, parcel weight bands start at 0.5 kg and go up in increments of 0.5 kg or 1.0 kg. Single packages can weigh up to 68 kg.
Parcel size and shape also influence shipping price. Irregular or large items can be charged an extra fee if they need special handling.
If you have an active FedEx account, you can access slightly lower shipping rates for some services by using certain complimentary FedEx packaging supplies with set size and weight limits.
What is dimensional weight and when does it apply?
For lightweight, bulky parcels, the shipping rate may be based on its dimensional (DIM) weight, also known as volumetric weight. This happens if the parcel’s DIM weight is higher than its actual weight.
Learn how DIM weight is calculated and when it may apply at our dimensional weight guide.
Does the distance to destination change the price?
Yes, shipping rates increase with distance. They also depend on if you’re shipping domestically, internationally or intercontinentally. FedEx groups destinations into geographic shipping zones based on distance and network access.
How do duties and taxes affect my shipping costs?
International shipments entering a new country are often subject to duties and taxes. Some samples and low-value gifts may be exempt. Unless instructed otherwise, FedEx pays the duties and taxes, then bills them to the receiver along with a processing (disbursement) fee.
To see what duties and taxes may apply to your shipment, visit FedEx Trade Planner.
What surcharges can be added to the shipping rate?
Surcharges are extra fees that can apply to a parcel, especially if it falls outside of standard shipping and handling. The most common are:
- Additional Handling Surcharge (AHS)
- Address correction
- Clearance service / Inbound processing / Disbursement fee
- Dangerous goods
- Demand surcharge
- Fuel surcharge
- Out-of-Pickup or Delivery-Area surcharge
- Missing or Invalid Account Number
How can I avoid unnecessary shipping charges?
No-one likes surprises, here’s how to avoid or anticipate extra shipping costs:
Don’t use a box larger than necessary – to minimise your parcel’s dimensional weight
Avoid irregular or oversized packages if possible – to avoid additional handling surcharges
Keep your parcel in the lowest weight bracket possible
Check if you can use FedEx packaging – to access lower shipping rates
Measure your parcel fully packed – including padding, labels, documents and tape, to get accurate dimensions and weight
Make sure your shipping documents are complete, correct and compliant – so your parcel can clear customs without processing fees for clearance support
Check in advance if duties and taxes apply to your item – and add Incoterms to your paperwork to make clear who’s paying
What can I do if I disagree with shipping charges?
If you disagree with a charge you can visit our invoice and enquiries page or get in touch with FedEx customer support.
Make sure to check the rules and regulations of the country you're shipping from and prior to shipping. You can find this information on government websites.
Check FedEx rates for your parcel
See shipping prices for your parcel type and destination.