03/27/2026
Why do freight quotes vary so much for the same shipment?
Many exporters, Amazon sellers, and e-commerce businesses run into the same problem when asking for shipping rates:
You ask several forwarders for a quote, and the prices are completely different.
Some seem too high.
Some look too low.
And some only become expensive later, after extra charges start showing up.
In many cases, the issue is not just the forwarder.
It is because the inquiry itself is incomplete.
If you want a more accurate freight quote, make sure you include these 4 things:
1. Cargo details
What is the cargo? General cargo, built-in battery products, pure battery, liquid, powder, cosmetics, food, branded goods, or something else?
Also include the product name, packaging photos, and cargo dimensions.
Why this matters:
Different cargo types go through different shipping channels. Dimensions also matter a lot, especially for oversized, overweight, or extra-long cargo, because they can affect chargeable weight, handling method, and special surcharges.
2. Your priority
Do you care more about cost, transit time, or a balanced solution?
3. Origin and destination
At least provide the origin city and the destination ZIP code.
If it is an Amazon FBA shipment, provide the warehouse code too.
4. Trade term
FOB, CIF, DDP, or DDU?
Different terms mean completely different quote structures.
If you need DDP, do not forget to provide the cargo value.
A better inquiry example:
Product: Bluetooth earphones with built-in battery
Quantity: 10 cartons
Total weight: 120kg
Dimensions: 45 × 38 × 32 cm per carton
Volume: 0.8 CBM
Origin: Shenzhen Longhua, self-delivery
Destination: Amazon FBA FTW1
Requirement: Normal timing, cost priority
Term: DDP
Cargo value: USD 2,000
A more complete inquiry usually means:
Faster quotes
More accurate pricing
Fewer hidden charges
Easier comparison between forwarders
A low quote is not always a cheap quote.
Sometimes it is just an incomplete quote.