Calculate shipping costs using hundredweight (CWT) pricing. Estimate per-CWT freight rates for multi-package ground shipments with volume discounts.
Hundredweight (CWT) pricing is a volume discount program offered by UPS, FedEx, and other carriers for shippers sending multiple packages to the same destination on the same day. Instead of pricing each package individually, CWT rates charge per 100 pounds (hence "hundredweight") with significantly lower per-package costs.
CWT pricing typically requires a minimum of 200 lbs per shipment (multiple packages to the same address) and uses the total shipment weight for rating rather than individual package weights. This is ideal for B2B shipments, retail replenishment, and distributors who regularly ship multiple cartons to the same location.
This calculator estimates CWT shipping costs and compares them to individual package rates, helping you identify when CWT pricing delivers the most savings.
Supply-chain managers, warehouse operators, and shipping coordinators rely on precise cwt shipping 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.
CWT pricing can reduce shipping costs by 30-60% compared to individual package rates. However, it only makes sense when you're shipping multiple packages to the same address on the same day and meeting the minimum weight requirement. This calculator helps you determine when CWT pricing is advantageous. Real-time recalculation lets you model different scenarios quickly, ensuring your logistics decisions are backed by accurate, up-to-date numbers.
CWT Cost = (Total Weight / 100) × CWT Rate Per-Package CWT Cost = CWT Cost / Number of Packages Savings = (Individual Rate × Packages) − CWT Cost
Result: CWT Cost = $144.00 (saves $72.00)
CWT cost = (450/100) × $32 = $144. Individual cost = 12 × $18 = $216. Savings = $216 − $144 = $72. Per-package CWT cost = $12 vs $18 individual.
CWT pricing shines when you have 3+ packages totaling 200+ lbs going to the same address. For single-package shipments or very light multi-package shipments, individual rates may be cheaper. Calculate both ways to find the crossover point for your typical shipment profiles.
Retail replenishment is the classic CWT use case. A distributor shipping 10-20 cartons to each retail store location on a weekly basis benefits enormously from CWT pricing. The combined weight easily exceeds minimums, and the per-package cost drops dramatically compared to individual rating.
To maximize CWT savings, consolidate orders to the same destination into single-day shipments. Use your TMS or shipping software to identify CWT-eligible packages and group them automatically. Track CWT utilization metrics to ensure you're capturing all qualifying shipments.
CWT pricing charges per 100 pounds of combined weight for multi-package shipments to the same address. Instead of rating each package individually, the carrier rates the total shipment weight at a lower per-CWT rate, providing significant volume savings.
Typical requirements include a minimum of 200 lbs per shipment, multiple packages going to the same address on the same day, and an enrolled CWT pricing agreement with the carrier. Some programs require a minimum of 3 or more packages.
CWT pricing typically saves 30-60% compared to individual package rates. Savings are greatest for heavier multi-package shipments to nearby zones. The exact savings depend on your negotiated CWT rates and individual package rates.
For shipments of 200-500 lbs, CWT ground is often cheaper and faster than LTL because it uses the parcel network. Above 500 lbs, LTL may become more economical. Compare both for your specific weight and lane.
Yes. Fuel surcharges are applied to the CWT rate, typically as a percentage of the total charge. CWT fuel surcharges may be different from standard parcel fuel surcharges, so verify your rate card.
CWT pricing is primarily designed for commercial addresses. Some carriers allow CWT for residential deliveries but may apply a residential surcharge per package on top of the CWT rate, reducing the savings.