InsightsContact LVTHow much does pallet transport cost? The factors that set the price
The price of pallet transport depends on much more than distance. These are the factors that decide what you pay – and how to get a rate that holds.
"How much does it cost to send a pallet?" is one of the questions we hear most often. The honest answer is: it depends. The cost of pallet transport is set by a range of factors, and two pallets going the same way can end up with very different rates. Here we go through what affects the price – so you know which details to include when you ask for a quote.
Pallet transport cost: space on the truck
The first factor is how much space the pallet takes up. Carriers work in loading metres (LDM) – how much of the load floor the goods occupy. A EUR pallet takes less space than an industrial pallet, and a pallet with overhang takes more than the pallet itself.
Read the full explanation in What is LDM? or use our overview of pallets and loading metres.
Weight and chargeable weight
The price is based on the higher of the actual weight and the space the goods occupy, converted into kilos. Heavy, compact pallets are usually charged by weight, while light, bulky pallets are charged by space. That is why correct dimensions and weight are the most important details you can give us.
Can the pallet be stacked?
If two pallets can stand on top of each other, they share the same floor space. That can make a noticeable difference to the price. But it has to be true: if the goods cannot take a pallet on top, say so. Otherwise you risk both damage and a price adjustment afterwards.
Distance and lane
Distance matters, but it is not everything. A lane with plenty of trucks running can be cheaper than a shorter route to a place with few departures. Goods to an area where trucks often return empty can also cost more than expected.
Surcharges, tolls and ferries
On top of the base freight there are usually:
- Fuel surcharge, adjusted in line with the diesel price. We publish our monthly rate on our fuel surcharge page.
- Road tolls in the countries where trucks pay to use the roads
- Ferry and bridge charges when the route crosses water
- Other surcharges, for example for dangerous goods (ADR) or special requirements
See an overview of typical surcharges in our guide to surcharges and traffic.
Delivery conditions
How the pallet is handed over matters too. The price is affected by:
- whether the consignee has a loading dock or a truck with a tail lift is needed
- delivery to a private address or a building site
- booking a time slot with the consignee
- carrying the goods in or placing them at a specific spot
How fast does it need to go?
A standard shipment consolidated with other goods is cheaper than an express service or a dedicated truck. The more notice you give, the better we can plan – and that shows in the price.
How to get a rate that holds
Send us these details when you ask for a rate:
- Collection and delivery address with postcode
- Number of pallets, dimensions (length × width × height) and weight per pallet
- Whether the goods can be stacked
- Delivery conditions: dock, tail lift, booking or private address
- Dangerous goods or other special requirements
- Preferred collection date
The more precise the details, the lower the risk of adjustments afterwards.
One contact, a clear rate
LVT plans transport from Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Finland to 35 markets and back. You get one dedicated contact who knows your shipments, and you can track every pallet online.
We would rather give you a rate that holds than one that only looks good on paper.
