With a variety of shipping options available worldwide — each with its own pricing model — understanding your choices upfront can save you time and money. That’s exactly why the Agora Freight online calculator was created. This fast, transparent tool helps you compare shipping rates, empowering you to select the most efficient and budget-friendly solution for your business.
Sea Freight:
For those who prioritize cost-effectiveness, ocean freight remains the most economical option for international shipments. For instance, a full 20-foot container (FCL) from Hamburg to the US East Coast typically costs between $2,800 and $4,800, while a 40-foot container ranges from $4 500 to $7 200. Freight transportation from Germany to East Asia may be slightly more expensive, with costs ranging from $3,200 to $5,000 for a 20-foot container, $5,200–$8,400 for a 40-foot, due to longer distance and seasonal demand. Short-sea routes within Europe (e.g., Hamburg to Rotterdam) can be as low as $400–$650 per TEU. If your shipments are smaller, Less-than-Container Load (LCL) is a flexible alternative. LCL freight charges from Germany generally range from:
- $80 to $160 per cubic meter for Hamburg/Bremerhaven to New York
- $90 to $180 per cubic meter to Shanghai or Shenzhen
- $70 to $140 per cubic meter to Liverpool or Dublin
Note: prices depend on seasonality, cargo specifics and port fees.
Air Freight:
When speed is critical, air freight provides rapid delivery, albeit at a higher price point. Rates typically range from $5 to $11 per kilogram to North America, $6–$13 per kilogram to Asia-Pacific, and $4–$8 per kilogram within Europe. Always assess whether the quicker transit time justifies the increased freight cost for your shipment from Germany.
Rail Freight:
The Eurasian rail corridor via the New Silk Road offers a balanced compromise between cost and speed. A 40-foot HC container from Duisburg to Xi’an typically costs $6,000–$8,500, with a transit time of 16–20 days — roughly twice as fast as ocean and half the cost of air. Westbound departures from China to Germany return similar rates, creating round-trip efficiency.
Cheapest Shipments from Germany:
If you’re specifically looking for the cheapest way to ship from Germany, sea freight remains the top choice, especially for large volumes. Using the Agora Freight calculator, you can quickly compare rates from various origins, including China, the USA, and Brazil, to find the most cost-effective route tailored to your needs.
Simplify your shipping from Germany with the Agora Freight online freight rate calculator — your transparent, all-in-one tool for comparing instant freight quotes across all transport modes, including multimodal solutions. Make informed decisions and choose the best shipping option for your business with confidence.