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Calculate Transport Costs
Switzerland & Europe
Free transport cost calculation for Switzerland and Europe. Precise cost indication based on weight, distance and service level.
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Switzerland 🇨🇭
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Calculate Transport Costs – Cost Factors and Rate Systems Explained
Transport costs consist of numerous factors: distance, weight/volume, transport mode, season, fuel prices, and current capacity. The freight market is highly dynamic – rates can change weekly. This calculator provides a well-founded estimate based on current market data.
Switzerland-based transports often have special features: LSVA levy for trucks, specific customs requirements, and higher personnel costs. For international shipments, fuel surcharges (BAF/FSC), security surcharges, and terminal surcharges are added.
Key Cost Factors Overview
Distance / ZoneHigh
Linear or zone-based rate structure. European zones often tiered by distance rings (500/1000/1500 km).
Weight / Loading meterHigh
Minimum weight/LDM charges even for small shipments. Surcharges for over/under weight.
Fuel surcharge (FSC)Medium–High
Varies weekly with diesel prices. In Switzerland: ASTAG index as reference. Typical: 15–35% of base rate.
LSVA (Switzerland)Medium
Performance-based heavy vehicle toll. Only for trucks >3.5t on Swiss roads. Depends on weight and km.
Season / CapacityMedium
Peak season (Christmas, spring planting): up to +30%. Low capacity due to driver shortage drives prices up.
SurchargesVariable
Pre-notification, time windows, liftgate, dangerous goods (ADR), oversized cargo, value adjustment, customs clearance.
Transport Mode Cost Comparison
| Transport mode | Cost |
|---|---|
| FTL Road (direct) | €€ |
| LTL Road (groupage) | € |
| Sea FCL | € |
| Sea LCL | €€ |
| Air freight | €€€€ |
| Express (DHL/FedEx) | €€€€€ |
Typical Surcharges
FSC / BAF15–40%
Fuel / Bunker Adjustment Factor
On base rate, depending on oil price
LSS / LSVAFixed
Swiss road usage levy
Swiss road sections only
THCFixed/TEU
Terminal Handling Charge (port)
Sea freight: per container
CAF0–10%
Currency Adjustment Factor
Currency fluctuation compensation
PSS€50–300/TEU
Peak Season Surcharge
Oct–Dec, Far East routes
ADR surchargeFixed
Dangerous goods surcharge
Depends on ADR class and quantity
FAQ
How are transport costs calculated?▼
Transport costs consist of: base rate (by weight/LDM/TEU), fuel surcharge (FSC), situational surcharges (dangerous goods, time windows, LSVA), and ancillary costs (customs, documentation). The base rate often makes up only 60–70% of total costs.
When is air freight cheaper than sea freight?▼
Air freight is only cheaper for time-critical goods or very high goods values, as capital tied up during transit and insurance costs must be factored in. Rule of thumb: If goods value × interest rate × extra transit days > freight price difference, air freight pays off.
What is LSVA and who pays it?▼
LSVA (performance-based heavy vehicle levy) is a Swiss road tax for vehicles over 3.5t. It is charged per kilometer driven on Swiss roads and depends on the maximum permissible weight. Paid by the carrier, which passes the costs to the shipper.
How far in advance should I book transports?▼
LTL/Groupage: 2–3 business days. FTL/Direct: 3–5 days. Sea FCL: 2–3 weeks. Air freight: 2–5 days. During peak season (Oct–Dec) double all lead times.
What is an Incoterm and why does it affect transport costs?▼
The Incoterm defines who – buyer or seller – bears which transport costs. EXW: all costs borne by buyer. DDP: all costs borne by seller. The Incoterm also determines who arranges cargo insurance.