Shipping is typically 30–50% of a rep haul's total cost and the part buyers most commonly underestimate. Unlike the item price, shipping depends on multiple interacting variables — actual weight, volumetric weight, carrier line, and destination. This guide explains each variable so you can estimate accurately before ordering.
Carriers charge whichever is higher: actual weight or volumetric weight. Volumetric weight is calculated from the package dimensions:
| Line type | Transit | Cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economy postal (ePacket, China Post SAL) | 20–40 days | Lowest | Non-urgent light goods. SAL doesn't use volumetric weight. |
| Economy express (YunExpress, SpeedPAK) | 12–20 days | Low–mid | Standard hauls US/EU/UK/AU. Good tracking. |
| EMS / Priority | 8–14 days | Mid | Time-sensitive hauls where speed matters. |
| DHL / FedEx / UPS | 5–10 days | High | Urgent orders. Highest customs check rate for rep items. |
Carrier rates vary significantly by destination. US and EU are the most competitive — high shipping volume drives lower rates. Australia, Canada, and most of Southeast Asia cost more per kg. Unusual destinations can cost 2–3× the US rate for the same weight. The Shipping Calculator shows current economy line rates for your specific country — always check before assuming the US rate applies to you.
Every international shipment has a base handling charge — approximately $4–8 depending on the carrier and agent — that applies once per parcel regardless of weight. Consolidating multiple items into one parcel means paying this base charge once instead of once per item.
All major agents hold items in their warehouse until you're ready to ship — the storage window is typically 60–90 days free. Use this to consolidate all items before triggering a single international shipment.
Shipping rates are not constant year-round. Key seasonal patterns:
For the largest consolidated hauls, timing the international shipment for March–May or July–August when possible produces the best rates and fastest transit.
Declared value affects customs assessment. Key thresholds:
Most rep haul packages are declared conservatively by agents. The Customs Calculator estimates your potential duty exposure for your destination country and declared value.