What is a freight quote?

Freight quotes help you compare options, budget shipping spend, and start commercial conversations with forwarders or carriers before you commit.

They are not final contract rates. Capacity, surcharges, FX, and Incoterms can all change the landed cost. Always confirm inclusions and validity before you book.

What providers usually need

Share a complete cargo profile up front so forwarders can return usable indicative offers:

• Weight and dimensions (or equipment / piece count);
• Origin and destination (port / airport / door);
• Mode (FCL, LCL, air, rail, truck, etc.);
• Special handling (DG, reefer, OOG, etc.).

Clearer inputs usually mean fewer follow-ups, fewer re-rates, and quotes closer to an executable booking.

What affects the price

• Heavier / larger / special cargo usually costs more;
• Distance, transshipments, and lane congestion;
• Service level (air is typically costlier than ocean);
• Add-ons such as customs, trucking, insurance, or warehousing.

Tips for better quotes

• Compare multiple forwarders side by side;
• Share a realistic cargo-ready window early;
• Consolidate volume when you can;
• Check credentials and lane track record.

When you compare, align inclusions, validity, transit guidance, and surcharge notes — not just the headline number.

Who pays freight?

Often the shipper or exporter pays the main freight first, but the ultimate cost split depends on the commercial terms agreed by buyer and seller.

Incoterms such as FOB, CIF, and DDP allocate freight, insurance, and risk transfer differently. Follow your contract and shipping documents rather than informal assumptions.

How to request and choose

Compare total cost structure, transit guidance, inclusions, and reputation, and verify that the cargo details match the quote. On tjtrans, post an RFQ and let matched forwarders submit indicative offers you can compare on the detail page.