International Shipping Cost
Understanding International Shipping Costs
International shipping costs might seem like a mystery, but once you break them down, they’re actually quite logical. Whether you’re sending a gift abroad or managing a global e-commerce business, understanding what makes up the shipping cost can help you save money and time.
🌍 Shipping internationally doesn’t have to be expensive—learn how Global India Express offers affordable options for personal and commercial shipments.
📦 Understand exactly what influences your shipping cost, from weight and packaging to destination and delivery speed.
✈️ Compare real-time rates for popular destinations like the USA, UK, UAE, Australia, and Canada.
💡 Discover smart ways to reduce costs, including package consolidation, bulk discounts, and using the right shipping tier.
✅ Get peace of mind with end-to-end tracking, customs support, and insurance options provided by Global India Express.
Table of contents

What Determines Shipping Costs?
Shipping charges are influenced by a range of factors including:
- Package Weight and Dimensions: Heavier and bulkier packages cost more.
- Destination Country: Some countries have higher customs or logistical charges.
- Shipping Speed: Express services are faster but pricier.
- Courier Partner: Each provider has different pricing policies.
- Type of Goods: Hazardous or high-value items may incur extra fees.
Weight vs. Volume Pricing
Carriers use either actual weight or dimensional weight—whichever is greater. Dimensional weight is calculated using the formula:
(Length x Width x Height) / Dimensional Factor
This is why small but bulky items can be costly to ship.
Courier vs. Freight Charges
- Courier Shipping: Ideal for small to medium packages, generally up to 70 kg.
- Freight Shipping: More suited for larger, bulk shipments.
Understanding these distinctions can help you choose the most cost-effective method.
Who is Global India Express?
Company Overview
Global India Express is a renowned Indian logistics provider that specializes in international courier and cargo services. They offer reliable, door-to-door delivery solutions to over 220 countries.
Global Reach and Services
From document couriers to large-scale freight, Global India Express connects India with major international markets like the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and the Middle East.
Unique Selling Points
- Competitive rates for global destinations
- Strong network of logistic partners like DHL, Aramex, and FedEx
- Free pickup and packaging services in India
- Real-time tracking and dedicated customer service
Breakdown of Cost Components
Understanding what contributes to your final international shipping cost is key.
Customs Duties & Taxes
These are country-specific and often unpredictable. Global India Express assists customers in estimating and handling these fees smoothly.
Fuel Surcharge and Handling Fees
These are variable charges added by carriers due to fluctuations in fuel prices or special handling needs.
Insurance & Delivery Time
Optional shipping insurance can safeguard high-value items, while expedited delivery options cost more due to faster transit times.
Major Shipping Routes Covered by Global India Express
Global India Express delivers from India to numerous international locations. Here are some of the most popular:
- United States: High-volume and fast-moving route.
- United Kingdom: Affordable rates with regular cargo frequency.
- Canada: Popular for personal and commercial parcels.
- United Arab Emirates: Special services for Indian expats.
- Europe & Asia-Pacific: Competitive shipping rates with strategic carrier partnerships.
Comparing Global India Express with Other Couriers
FedEx, DHL, UPS Comparison
Courier | Speed | Price | Tracking | Global India Express Advantage |
---|---|---|---|---|
FedEx | High | High | Excellent | Better pricing |
DHL | Very High | Premium | Outstanding | More affordable |
UPS | High | Medium | Strong | Local support in India |
Global India Express often offers more budget-friendly rates while maintaining similar speed and service reliability.
How to Calculate Your International Shipping Cost
Online Cost Calculator
Global India Express provides a handy online tool where you can input:
- Pickup and delivery addresses
- Package weight and dimensions
- Item type
The calculator instantly gives you an estimated cost.
Tips to Reduce International Shipping Costs
Want to cut down your shipping bill? Try these tricks:
- Consolidate Shipments: Combine multiple packages into one.
- Optimize Packaging: Use the smallest box possible to reduce volumetric weight.
- Choose the Right Time: Avoid peak shipping seasons.
- Negotiate Rates: Especially for business or bulk users.
- Use Promotions: Look out for seasonal discounts on the Global India Express website.
🌍 International Shipping Costs: India → Key Countries
Here’s a more detailed breakdown of international shipping cost estimates via Global India Express for different countries, based on typical weight slabs and service types:
🇺🇸 USA
- Economy: ₹2,200 per kg (for 1 kg)
- Express: ₹2,600 per kg (for 1 kg)
- Express tiers:
- 2 kg → ₹3,400/kg
- 4 kg → ₹4,400/kg
- Above 10 kg → ₹780–₹890 per kg depending on weight bracket
Global India Express also states overall shipping ranges from:
- Economy: ~₹3,900/kg (average for mixed weights)
- Express: ₹5,500/kg or more for heavier packages (~5 kg–20 kg)
🇦🇺 Australia
Weight-based pricing:
- Above 10 kg: Economy ₹810/kg, Express ₹1,230/kg
- 20 + kg: ₹790/kg (Economy) / ₹1,190/kg (Express)
- 50 + kg: ₹760/kg / ₹1,140/kg
- 100 + kg: ₹720/kg / ₹1,100/kg
Also available:
- 30 + kg → ₹650/kg
- 50 + kg → ₹590/kg
- 100 + kg → ₹550/kg — in bulk
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
- Sea freight (LCL):
- ≤ 300 kg → ~₹35,000 per CBM
- ≤ 500 kg → ~₹45,000/CBM
- ≤ 1,000 kg → ~₹60,000/CBM
(Note: CBM = Cubic Meter; includes door pickup, packing & port fees separately)
⚖️ Note on Total Cost
These per-kg estimates usually exclude:
- Customs duties,
- GST (18% tax),
- Fuel surcharges,
- Insurance or special handling fees.
🇨🇦 Canada
- While specific kgs aren’t directly listed, Global India Express features Canada under its freight network for documents, parcels, and cargo—pricing broadly aligns with other major countries like USA, UK, Australia
🇦🇪 UAE
- UAE is included among Global India Express’s covered destinations—rates are not specified per kg but are comparable to USA/Canada routes under express and economy options
International Shipping Costs Summary Table
Destination | Economy Rate (₹/kg) | Express Rate (₹/kg) | Bulk Discounts |
---|---|---|---|
USA | ₹2,200–3,900 | ₹2,600–5,500 | ~₹780–890/kg (10 + kg) |
Australia | ₹810 (10 kg+), ₹550–650 (bulk) | ₹1,100–1,230 (bulk) | |
UK | Sea Freight: ₹35k–60k/CBM | — | — |
Canada | Similar to USA/UK | — | — |
UAE | Similar to USA/Canada | — | — |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How is the international shipping cost calculated by Global India Express?
The shipping cost is determined based on factors like package weight, size, destination country, shipping speed (standard or express), and any applicable customs duties or taxes. Global India Express uses both actual and volumetric weight to determine the final cost.
2. Can I get a quote before shipping my parcel?
Yes, Global India Express provides an online cost calculator. You can enter details like weight, dimensions, and destination to get an estimated quote instantly.
3. What countries does Global India Express ship to?
Global India Express ships to over 220 countries, including the USA, UK, Australia, Canada, UAE, and European and Asian regions.
4. Are there discounts for bulk or business shipments?
Yes. Bulk shipments often come with discounted per-kg rates. Businesses and regular shippers may also receive special pricing or negotiated contracts.
5. What’s the difference between economy and express shipping?
Economy shipping is cost-effective but slower (6–12 days), while express shipping is faster (3–5 days) but more expensive. Choose based on urgency and budget.
6. Does the shipping cost include customs duties and taxes?
No, customs duties and taxes are separate and depend on the destination country’s import regulations. Global India Express assists with estimating these charges but they are paid separately by the receiver.
7. Is packaging included in the shipping cost?
Global India Express offers free pickup and professional packaging within India, which can help avoid additional volumetric charges.
8. Can I track my shipment in real-time?
Yes, all parcels come with a tracking number. You can track your shipment through Global India Express’s website or partner couriers like DHL, Aramex, or FedEx.
9. What if my parcel is lost or damaged during transit?
Global India Express offers optional insurance coverage for valuable items. In case of loss or damage, compensation is provided according to the terms of insurance.
10. Are there items I cannot ship internationally?
Yes. Restricted items include explosives, liquids, perishable goods, and other prohibited materials. It’s advised to check the list of restricted items before shipping.