Quick answer: An accurate freight quote needs four inputs: exact dimensions and weight, collection and delivery addresses, the commodity and its value, and how fast it must move. With those, JLog compares FedEx and DHL rates side by side across courier, air and sea — sea options quoted pending customs clearance. Below: what drives freight pricing at each weight break, from 10 kg to 500 kg.
How Freight Quotes Work in South Africa — And What Affects Your Rate
A freight quote is an estimate of what it will cost to move your goods from point A to point B. Getting an accurate quote means understanding what information carriers need and what factors they use to calculate price.
What Goes Into a Freight Quote?
When you request a freight quote, the carrier or your logistics provider needs to know: origin and destination, goods description, dimensions and weight, quantity, packaging type, service level required, and any special requirements (fragile, temperature-controlled, insured).
Note: Carriers calculate “chargeable weight” — the greater of actual weight or dimensional weight (length × width × height ÷ 5,000 in cm). A carton measuring 1m × 0.5m × 0.5m weighing 10 kg has a dimensional weight of 50 kg — you’re charged for 50 kg.
5 Factors That Affect Your Freight Rate
- Weight and Volume — Heavier and bulkier goods cost more. Chargeable weight (greater of actual vs. dimensional) determines pricing.
- Distance and Route — Cape Town to Johannesburg (1,400 km) is cheaper than Cape Town to London (9,600 km). Route capacity also affects price.
- Service Level — Next-day service costs 2–3× more than 3–5 day service.
- Fragility and Handling — Fine art, ceramics, and glassware require specialist care. Fragile goods cost 15–30% more than general goods.
- Seasonality and Demand — Peak seasons (December, January, July–August, Chinese New Year) drive prices up. Quiet seasons offer discounts.
Air vs. Sea vs. Road: Price Comparison
| Route | Method | Cost | Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CT to JHB (100 kg) | Road freight | On request | 1–2 days | Urgent, standard goods |
| CT to JHB (500 kg) | Road freight | On request | 1–2 days | Bulk standard goods |
| CT to London (10 kg) | FedEx courier | On request | 3–4 days | Small parcels, high-value |
| CT to London (100 kg) | Air freight | On request | 6–8 days | Urgent, moderate weight |
| CT to London (500 kg) | Sea LCL | On request | 16–24 days | Cost-sensitive, flexible timing |
According to the South African Logistics Cluster, freight costs account for 8–15% of total supply chain costs in South Africa (2024). For e-commerce businesses, freight is often the second-largest cost after inventory. Accurate quotes and carrier selection can reduce costs by 10–20%.
Frequently Asked Questions: Freight Quotes
How accurate are online freight calculators?
They’re estimates only. Actual quotes depend on carrier availability, consolidation, and special requirements. Always confirm with a carrier or logistics provider before booking.
Why did my freight quote increase?
Prices fluctuate with fuel costs, carrier capacity, seasonality, and demand. A quote from 3 weeks ago may be outdated — always get a fresh quote before booking.
Can I negotiate a freight quote?
Yes, especially for regular or higher-volume shipments. JLog negotiates carrier rates on behalf of clients — our direct FedEx and DHL accounts deliver 10–15% below retail rates.
What’s the difference between a quote and an invoice?
A quote is an estimate; an invoice is the actual charge after shipment. Quotes may change if dimensions, weight, or service level change between quoting and booking.
“We’ve negotiated direct accounts with FedEx and DHL, which means our quotes are 10–15% lower than retail rates. We get you accurate quotes within 2 hours, and we stand by our prices — no surprises on invoice.” — Gerrit Dyman, Managing Director, JLog
Get in touch: 021 300 6099 | [email protected] | jlog.co.za