Which factors determine the transport costs?
Type of transport
Wex Holland provides various types of transport, including road transport, sea freight, and air freight. Each type has its own characteristics and cost structure.
Air freight, for example, is the fastest solution but comes with higher costs. Road transport is often more flexible and cost‑efficient within Europe, while sea freight is attractive for large volumes over long distances.
The choice of transport mode directly affects the price due to differences in speed, capacity, and operational complexity.
Volume and weight of the shipment
The size of your shipment plays a major role in the cost calculation. We look not only at the weight, but also at the volume and the required loading space.
Important factors include:
- Dimensions and weight of the goods
- Number of pallets or loading meters
- Container use or loose cargo
- Possibility to combine with other shipments
The larger or less efficiently stackable the cargo is, the more space it occupies. This can lead to higher costs, especially when combined transport is not possible.
Type of shipment
Not every shipment is standard. The type of goods and any specific requirements often have a direct impact on the price.
Examples of cost‑increasing factors include:
- ADR goods (dangerous goods)
- Temperature‑controlled transport (refrigerated or heated)
- Express shipments
- Exceptional transport
- FTL or groupage transport
Specialized shipments require adapted vehicles, additional safety measures, or specific handling. This results in higher operational costs and therefore a different rate.
Distance and route
The distance between the loading and unloading addresses is an important factor, but certainly not the only one. The route and logistical complexity also play a role.
Consider, for example:
- National versus international transport
- Customs formalities and documentation
- Accessibility of locations
- Specific delivery time windows
Transport within the Netherlands requires a different approach than a shipment to, for example, the United States. The more complex the route, the greater the impact on costs.
External costs and surcharges
In addition to operational factors, there are external costs that can vary by country, region, and time.
Key examples include:
- Toll and Maut charges in Europe
- Fuel surcharges due to price fluctuations
- Insurance such as CMR and additional coverage
These costs are often outside direct control, but they are included in the final price calculation.
