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Freight Decision Tools

Terms of Use & Disclaimer

Last updated: Launch Revision

1. Purpose as Planning Aids

Freight Decision Tools provides interactive calculators, reference guides, and mathematical models solely as educational and pre-shipment planning aids. The tools are made available free of charge for general informational use.

Nothing on this website constitutes a binding quotation, legal advice, maritime cargo stowage plan, or commercial contract.

2. Calculations Are Planning Estimates

All calculations produced by our tools are mathematical estimates based on the specific numerical values you input and standard baseline assumptions (such as orthogonal box packing or reference dimensional weight divisors).

Real-world cargo transport involves physical variables that no online tool can guarantee, including:

  • Packaging irregularities, carton compression, and volumetric bulging;
  • Pallet heights, overhangs, and pallet base weight;
  • Dunnage, securing straps, void bags, and required ventilation clearances;
  • Axle weight distributions and regional road transport limits.

3. Verification of Commercial Quotations & Equipment

Freight rates, currency conversion rates, terminal handling charges (THC), container freight station (CFS) fees, fuel surcharges, and free time allowances fluctuate continuously and vary by trade lane, port, and forwarder contract.

Similarly, shipping container interior dimensions, tare weights, and payload capacities vary by manufacturer and equipment series. Shippers and importers are advised to:

  • Verify all commercial rate scopes directly with their freight forwarders or shipping lines;
  • Confirm maximum gross mass and payload limits using the physical CSC Safety Approval Plate mounted on the specific container door;
  • Ensure highway weight compliance with local trucking carriers and transport authorities.

4. Limitation of Responsibility

To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, Freight Decision Tools and its authors shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages, commercial losses, freight deadfreight charges, demurrage, detention, or customs fines resulting from reliance on the tools, guides, or estimates provided on this site.

5. Methodology Reference

For a detailed mathematical description of the formulas, standards, and assumptions utilized across our tools, please review our Calculation Methodology.