How container shipping is priced
Container shipping costs are made up of several components — not just the ocean freight rate. A complete port-to-port price includes the ocean freight, Terminal Handling Charges at both ends, documentation fees, and customs clearance. Understanding each component helps you compare quotes accurately and avoid surprise charges.
Ocean freight
The core cost — what you pay the shipping line to move your container from port A to port B. Rates fluctuate based on global supply and demand. Post-pandemic rates have moderated from 2021–2022 peaks but remain elevated compared to pre-2020 norms.
Terminal Handling Charges (THC)
THC covers the cost of moving the container within the port terminal — loading it onto the ship at origin, and unloading it from the ship at destination. Both origin and destination ports charge THC separately, and it's typically non-negotiable (set by the port authority).
Documentation fees
The Bill of Lading (B/L) is the key shipping document — it's the contract of carriage and your proof of ownership of the goods. B/L fees are typically $80–$150 per shipment.
Container shipping rates from Australia (2026)
| Route (from Australia) | 20ft | 40ft | Transit |
|---|---|---|---|
| To New Zealand | $2,500 – $3,500 | $3,800 – $5,200 | 2 weeks |
| To Singapore / SE Asia | $3,000 – $4,500 | $4,500 – $6,500 | 2–3 weeks |
| To Japan / S. Korea | $3,500 – $5,000 | $5,200 – $7,200 | 3 weeks |
| To China | $3,200 – $4,800 | $4,800 – $7,000 | 3 weeks |
| To India | $3,500 – $5,000 | $5,500 – $7,500 | 3–4 weeks |
| To UAE / Middle East | $4,000 – $5,800 | $6,000 – $8,500 | 4 weeks |
| To UK / N. Europe | $4,500 – $6,500 | $6,800 – $9,500 | 7 weeks |
| To USA West Coast | $4,000 – $5,800 | $6,000 – $8,500 | 4 weeks |
| To USA East Coast | $5,000 – $7,500 | $7,500 – $11,000 | 7 weeks |
| To South Africa | $5,000 – $7,500 | $7,500 – $11,000 | 5 weeks |
Rates include ocean freight + origin THC only. Destination THC, customs clearance, insurance, and inland delivery are additional. Rates are indicative and fluctuate with market conditions.
LCL vs FCL — cost comparison
For small shipments (under 10 CBM), LCL is almost always cheaper than booking a full 20ft container. For larger shipments, the economics shift:
- Under 10 CBM: LCL is typically cheaper by $500–$1,500
- 10–20 CBM: Similar cost — get quotes for both. FCL gives you security and speed.
- 20–33 CBM: A 20ft FCL becomes more cost-effective
- 33–67 CBM: A 40ft FCL is most economical
- 67+ CBM: A 40ft High Cube or multiple containers