Calculate pallet shipping rates using per-position pricing. Estimate cost per pallet for LTL, pallet freight, and shared truckload shipments.
Pallet-based freight pricing offers a simplified alternative to traditional LTL freight classification. Instead of calculating costs based on freight class, weight, and density, pallet rate programs charge a flat rate per pallet position, with adjustments for weight and distance. This pricing model has gained popularity because of its simplicity and predictability.
Pallet freight services fill the gap between LTL and full truckload (FTL). For shipments of 4-12 pallets, pallet pricing is often 15-30% cheaper than traditional LTL, especially for heavy freight that would be penalized by density-based classification. Companies like SAIA, ABF, and various shared truckload providers offer pallet-rate programs.
This calculator helps you estimate the total cost of pallet freight based on the number of pallet positions, per-position rate, and applicable surcharges.
Supply-chain managers, warehouse operators, and shipping coordinators rely on precise pallet rate data to maintain efficiency and control costs across complex distribution networks. Revisit this calculator whenever conditions change to keep your logistics plans aligned with real-world performance.
Pallet-rate pricing simplifies freight budgeting by eliminating freight class complexity. Knowing the cost per pallet position makes it easy to quote freight, compare carriers, and build logistics into your product pricing. It's particularly valuable for heavy, dense shipments that are expensive under traditional LTL. Real-time recalculation lets you model different scenarios quickly, ensuring your logistics decisions are backed by accurate, up-to-date numbers.
Base Pallet Cost = Pallets × Rate per Position Fuel Surcharge = Base Cost × FSC % Total = Base + Fuel + Accessorials Cost per Pallet = Total / Number of Pallets
Result: Total Pallet Freight = $1,438.20
Base cost = 6 pallets × $185 = $1,110. Fuel = $1,110 × 0.22 = $244.20. Accessorials = $85. Total = $1,110 + $244.20 + $85 = $1,439.20. Cost per pallet = $239.87.
Pallet-rate pricing is most advantageous for heavy freight (over 10 lbs per cubic foot density), shipments of 4-12 pallets, and consistent lanes where you can negotiate volume-based rates. For very light freight or single-pallet shipments, traditional LTL may still be more economical.
Shared truckload services route pallets more directly than LTL, which moves freight through hub-and-spoke terminal networks. This means fewer touches, faster transit, and less damage risk. For cost-conscious shippers with multi-pallet shipments, shared truckload has become a compelling middle option.
Maximize the value of each pallet position by stacking cases to the carrier's height limit (typically 96 inches from floor). Use the full 48×40 footprint and approach the weight limit. Under-utilized pallet positions represent wasted spend in a per-position pricing model.
A pallet position is the floor space in a trailer that one standard pallet (48×40 inches) occupies. A standard 53-foot trailer has approximately 26-30 pallet positions. Most pallet rate programs define a position as one standard pallet up to a specified weight and height limit.
Pallet pricing is often 15-30% cheaper than traditional LTL for shipments of 4-12 pallets, especially for heavy freight. LTL may be cheaper for 1-3 pallets or very lightweight shipments where density works in your favor.
Yes. Most pallet rate programs set a weight limit per position, typically 1,500-2,500 lbs. Pallets exceeding the limit may be charged for additional positions or face weight surcharges.
Non-standard pallets wider or longer than 48×40 inches may count as 1.5 or 2 pallet positions. Verify your carrier's rules for non-standard pallets to avoid unexpected charges.
Major LTL carriers like ABF and SAIA offer pallet rate programs. Shared truckload services like Flock Freight, GoShip, and various 3PLs also provide pallet-based pricing that consolidates multiple shippers into one truck.
Shared truckload combines multiple pallet shipments from different shippers into one full truckload. Each shipper pays for their pallet positions, reducing cost compared to a dedicated truck while providing faster, more direct service than LTL.