Pallet Shipping Calculator
Estimate LTL freight costs for pallet shipments by entering pallet count, weight, height, freight class, and carrier rate. Ideal for logistics planners comparing shipping options before booking.
About this calculator
LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) shipping costs are calculated using a rate per hundredweight (CWT), meaning the carrier charges per 100 lbs of freight. The base cost is: Base Cost = (totalWeight / 100) × ratePerCwt, where totalWeight = palletCount × weightPerPallet. A freight class multiplier is then applied — classes ≤65 get a 10% discount (×0.9), classes ≤100 use the base rate (×1.0), classes ≤125 add 20% (×1.2), and higher classes add 50% (×1.5). If pallets exceed 72 inches in height they are not stackable, adding a 15% surcharge. A standard 18% fuel surcharge is applied to the base cost, a $25 handling fee is added, and liftgate service (if required) is added as a flat fee. The full formula is: Total = (BaseCost × classMultiplier × stackableMultiplier) + liftgate + fuelSurcharge + 25.
How to use
Suppose you're shipping 4 pallets, each weighing 500 lbs, at 60 inches tall, freight class 100, at a rate of $28 per CWT, with no liftgate. Total weight = 4 × 500 = 2,000 lbs. Base cost = (2,000 / 100) × $28 = $560. Class multiplier = 1.0 (class 100). Stackable multiplier = 1.0 (height ≤ 72 in). Fuel surcharge = $560 × 0.18 = $100.80. Total = ($560 × 1.0 × 1.0) + $0 + $100.80 + $25 = $685.80.
Frequently asked questions
How does freight class affect LTL shipping costs?
Freight class is a standardized rating system (classes 50–500) that reflects a shipment's density, stowability, handling, and liability. Lower classes (denser, easier-to-handle goods) cost less to ship, while higher classes carry a significant price premium. In this calculator, class ≤65 earns a 10% discount, while classes above 125 incur a 50% surcharge. Correctly classifying your freight prevents costly carrier reclassification charges after pickup.
What is the 18% fuel surcharge in LTL freight pricing?
Fuel surcharges are variable fees carriers add to cover fluctuating diesel costs. Most LTL carriers apply a fuel surcharge as a percentage of the linehaul (base) cost, typically ranging from 15% to 25% depending on current fuel indices. This calculator uses a fixed 18% estimate as a realistic average. Always confirm the current surcharge with your carrier before finalizing a quote, as it changes weekly.
When do I need liftgate service for pallet shipping?
Liftgate service is required when the delivery or pickup location does not have a loading dock or forklift to raise and lower pallets from the truck bed. This is common for retail storefronts, residential addresses, and smaller warehouses. Carriers charge a flat fee for liftgate use, which is added directly to your freight bill. Forgetting to request liftgate service when needed can result in failed deliveries and re-delivery charges.