Ups Freight Calculator

UPS Freight Cost Estimator

Use this calculator to get an estimated cost for your Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) shipment with UPS Freight. Please note that this is an estimate, and actual rates may vary based on specific service options, accessorials, and current carrier tariffs.

Understanding UPS Freight Shipping Costs

Shipping freight, especially Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) shipments, involves a complex calculation based on several key factors. UPS Freight, now part of TFI International's TForce Freight, specializes in LTL services, offering businesses a cost-effective way to transport goods that don't require a full truckload.

Key Factors Influencing UPS Freight Costs:

1. Weight: The total weight of your shipment is a primary driver of cost. Heavier shipments generally incur higher base charges.
2. Dimensions: The length, width, and height of your shipment determine its cubic volume. This is crucial for calculating density, which directly impacts its freight class.
3. Freight Class (NMFC): This is perhaps the most critical factor for LTL shipping. The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) assigns a freight class (ranging from 50 to 500) to commodities based on four characteristics:
   • Density: Pounds per cubic foot. Denser items typically get lower (cheaper) classes.
   • Stowability: How easily the item can be loaded with other freight.
   • Handling: The ease or difficulty of loading and unloading.
   • Liability: The likelihood of theft, damage, or spoilage.
   Lower freight classes (e.g., Class 50) are for very dense, durable, and easily handled items, while higher classes (e.g., Class 500) are for light, bulky, fragile, or difficult-to-handle goods.
4. Origin and Destination: The distance between the pickup and delivery locations, as well as the specific zip codes, significantly affects the shipping lane and associated costs. Shipments to or from remote areas may also incur additional charges.
5. Service Type: UPS Freight offers various service levels (e.g., standard, guaranteed). Faster or more specialized services will naturally cost more.
6. Accessorials: These are additional services beyond standard dock-to-dock transportation. Common accessorials include:
   • Liftgate service (for locations without a loading dock)
   • Inside delivery/pickup
   • Limited access delivery (e.g., schools, construction sites)
   • Residential delivery/pickup
   • Notification services
   • Storage or reconsignment fees
   Each accessorial adds to the total cost.
7. Fuel Surcharges: LTL carriers apply a fuel surcharge that fluctuates with the price of diesel fuel.

How to Use the UPS Freight Cost Estimator:

Our calculator provides a simplified estimate based on common LTL factors. To use it:

1. Enter Origin and Destination Zip Codes: Provide the 5-digit zip codes for both the pickup and delivery locations.
2. Input Total Shipment Weight: Enter the combined weight of all items in your shipment in pounds.
3. Provide Dimensions: Measure the longest, middle, and shortest dimensions of your palletized or crated shipment in inches. These are used to calculate the shipment's density.
4. Select Freight Class: Choose the appropriate NMFC freight class for your commodity. If you're unsure, you can often find this information from your supplier or by consulting an NMFC guide. The calculator will also show you the estimated density based on your inputs, which can help you verify your class selection.
5. Click "Calculate Estimated Cost": The tool will then provide an estimated density, the selected freight class, and a simulated shipping cost.

Important Disclaimer:

This UPS Freight Cost Estimator provides a general approximation of shipping costs. It uses a simplified rate structure and does not account for all potential variables such as specific carrier tariffs, current fuel surcharges, specific service levels, volume discounts, or any accessorial charges. For an accurate quote, always contact UPS Freight (TForce Freight) directly or use their official quoting tools.

Example Calculation:

Let's consider a shipment with the following details:

• Origin Zip: 90210
• Destination Zip: 10001
• Total Weight: 500 lbs
• Length: 48 inches
• Width: 40 inches
• Height: 30 inches
• Freight Class: 100

Based on these inputs, the calculator would first determine the cubic feet: (48 * 40 * 30) / 1728 = 33.33 cubic feet. Then, the density would be 500 lbs / 33.33 cu ft = 15 lbs/cu ft. Using our simulated rate logic, this would result in an estimated cost, including a minimum charge and a distance surcharge, giving you a ballpark figure for your shipment.