Request options using the same cargo sheet. Compare the cost to the agreed destination and the date your business needs, alongside product acceptance.
Start with the packages that will travel
Ask your supplier for the carton count, dimensions and gross weight for each group of identical cartons. Include protective packaging and pallets where used. Add packaging photos, product, material, use, actual value and ready date.
Declare batteries, liquids, magnets, branded goods and other relevant characteristics. Acceptance and documents are reviewed for the specific goods and route; an option available for another product may not work for yours.
Turn dimensions into a useful reference
For rectangular cartons measured in centimetres, calculate CBM as length × width × height × carton count ÷ 1,000,000. For example, four cartons measuring 50 × 40 × 30 cm total 0.24 m³. This is a calculation example without a rate or service acceptance.
Volume and gross weight help compare options. DHL explains that dimensional weight can determine the charge rather than actual weight. Confirm the divisor, minimums and rounding for the quoted service; the site calculator lets you explore a reference.
What to check for each option
Use these options as starting points for a review, subject to availability and acceptance.
Scroll the table sideways to see all columns.
| Option | When to request an assessment | What to compare |
|---|---|---|
| Parcel shipping | Cartons that may fit the service’s package limits | Chargeable weight, dimensions, coverage and import scope |
| Air freight | Lots whose deadline justifies reviewing an air movement | Terminal operations, documentation, delivery and complete cost |
| Ocean LCL | Cargo that could share container space | Consolidation, deconsolidation, destination charges and full lead time |
Small lots still need an operational review
LCL allows cargo to share space without booking a whole container, as Maersk explains. For your purchase, ask whether the packaging is acceptable and what work is required at origin and destination.
Request applicable minimum charges and per-shipment items. If you buy from several suppliers, include their locations and ready dates. Waiting for one supplier changes the departure plan and may justify comparing separate shipments.
Use the complete deadline and budget
Compare cargo availability, collection, departure wait, transport, importing and delivery. Ask which dates are estimates and what information is needed to refine them.
Avoid using a fixed weight or volume as a universal boundary between air and ocean. Request two options when feasible and compare their scope against your business’s replenishment needs.
What to send to start the review
“I have [product], [cartons], [dimensions and weight by group], ready in [city/date], for delivery to [postal code]. I need to review [target date] and the cost to [delivery point]. Special characteristics are [details].”
You can start with provisional figures if you label them. Before booking, confirm final packaging, import requirements and scope in writing.
Sources and scope
- Maersk · Is Less than Container Load the right solution for your business? ↗
- DHL Express · What is volumetric weight? ↗
Sources consulted on 26 October 2026. Checklists and examples are planning guidance prepared by MX Pacific Express. Other operators’ processes illustrate concepts; the conditions for your cargo are confirmed separately.
Prepare your next step
Share the product, packaging, weight, origin and destination. Identify any information still pending so your inquiry can be reviewed with the right scope.
Review options for my small shipmentRoutes, availability and delivery conditions are confirmed in each quote.