When checking a DHL rate, the number you see isn’t the only thing worth considering.
International courier rates can vary based on your parcel’s weight, dimensions, destination, selected service and applicable surcharges. That’s why two parcels going to the same country can still receive different shipping quotations.
If you’re comparing DHL with other international couriers, here’s what you should understand before booking.
Table of Contents
What Determines a DHL Rate?
There isn’t one fixed DHL rate for every international shipment.
Your quotation can depend on several factors:
| Factor | How It Affects Your Rate |
|---|---|
| Destination | Different countries and locations have different shipping rates |
| Actual Weight | Heavier parcels may cost more |
| Parcel Size | Large parcels can result in higher volumetric weight |
| Service Type | Faster or time-definite services may cost differently |
| Surcharges | Additional charges may apply depending on the shipment |
This is why you should always use your actual shipment details when requesting a courier quotation.
Actual Weight vs Volumetric Weight
One important factor affecting your DHL rate is chargeable weight.
A parcel may physically weigh only 3kg but take up enough space to have a volumetric weight of 8kg.
For DHL Express, volumetric weight is generally calculated as:
Length (cm) × Width (cm) × Height (cm) ÷ 5,000
For example:
50cm × 40cm × 20cm ÷ 5,000 = 8kg
If the parcel’s actual weight is 3kg but its volumetric weight is 8kg, the higher weight may be used when determining the shipping charge.
Tip: Always measure and weigh your parcel after packing.
Does a DHL Rate Include Duties and Taxes?
Not necessarily.
Your international courier rate and destination duties and taxes are separate costs.
Depending on what you’re sending and where it’s going, the recipient may encounter:
- Import duty
- GST or VAT
- Sales tax
- Other customs-related charges
These charges can depend on the HS Code, declared value, country of origin and destination country’s customs rules.
So when budgeting for international shipping, don’t consider the courier rate alone.
Compare DHL Alternatives with EasyParcel
Depending on your destination and parcel details, EasyParcel lets you compare available international services from couriers such as:
FedEx | UPS | Aramex | SingPost
Instead of checking each courier individually, enter your shipment information once to compare available:
✓ Shipping rates
✓ Estimated delivery times
✓ Pickup or drop-off options
✓ International courier services
EasyParcel also provides:
Auto Generate HS Code
Get HS Code suggestions based on your product information to simplify international customs preparation.
Extra Parcel Protection (EasyCover)
Eligible shipments can add EasyCover, optional parcel protection covering loss only, up to S$5,000, subject to eligibility and applicable terms.
Estimate Import Costs
Estimate potential duties and taxes before shipping internationally for better cost planning.
Track Every Shipment
Monitor your parcel journey from pickup until successful delivery in one place.
Compare International Courier Rates
Already checked the DHL rate but want to see what other couriers offer?
How to Book International Shipping with EasyParcel
1. Log in EasyParcel account.
2. Under “Send Parcel”, Click on “International Delivery”.
3. Enter details (sender country with postcode, destination country with postcode and parcel weight) and click on “Quote”.
Choose your preferred courier and click “Book Now.”
4. Fill in all details included Sender Details, Receiver Details, Parcel Details and Add-On Services.
Sender and Receiver Details:
Parcel Details:
Enter the actual weight, dimension and content of your parcel.
Parcel Content:
Fill in your item name. Then, choose your item category from the dropdown menu. The HS code will be auto generated based on your selection.
Note: Learn more about Smart HS Code.
Add-On Services:
i. Select your preferred duties payment option – Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) or Delivered Duty Unpaid (DDU).
Note: Learn more about DDP and DDU.
ii. Tick the box to add EasyCover for additional protection against loss.
Note: EasyCover availability depends on the courier selected. Learn more about EasyCover.
iii. Choose your preferred notification channel – SMS, Email, or WhatsApp. Click “Preview” to see how it looks, and click “Customise” to add brand message to the notification.
Note: Learn more about Customise Branding Servcies.
iv. Tick the “Mask Sender Details” checkbox. EasyParcel Next Gen will automatically hide your sender information based on your saved privacy settings.
Note: Mask Sender Details only available for certain couriers. Find out what courier is available for Mask Sender Details.
v. Tick the “Custom AWB” checkbox. EasyParcel Next Gen will apply your saved AWB template automatically. After completing all details, click on “Checkout” button.
Note: Custom AWB is only available for certain couriers. Find out which couriers support Custom AWB.
5. Double check all the details and click on “Pay Now” to make payment.
6. Download and print Air Waybill (AWB).
Single AWB
1. Click the three dots icon next to the shipment.
2. Select “Print AWB” from the dropdown menu.
3. A PDF file will automatically download and save.
Bulk Downloads AWB
1. Tick the “Selected” checkbox to choose all your orders.
2. A menu will appear at the bottom of the screen.
3. Click “AWB” to download all AWBs in bulk.
Final Thoughts
A DHL rate can vary according to your destination, parcel weight, dimensions, service and applicable additional charges. That’s why checking a shipment-specific quotation is more useful than relying on a general advertised rate.
If you’re not committed to DHL, compare other options too. EasyParcel lets you compare available international courier rates and estimated delivery times in one place, helping you find a service that better matches your budget and shipping needs.
