Rates & billing
Most bills are paid by the sender in China. As a recipient, understanding chargeable weight helps you explain costs to family or sellers — and spot surprise fees early.
Chargeable weight
Carriers bill the greater of actual weight and volumetric weight. Express formulas are often L×W×H (cm) ÷ 5000; many economy lines use ÷ 6000. Light but bulky boxes cost more than you expect.
First weight & additional weight
Air products usually bill in 0.5 kg steps. The first half-kilo is the “first weight”; each extra 0.5 kg is “additional weight”, often at a different unit price.
Common surcharges
Fuel, remote-area delivery, oversized/overweight pieces, residential delivery, peak-season (often Oct–Jan), and failed-delivery/return handling can all add to the base freight.
Why the final bill differs from a quote
Re-measured volumetric weight, new surcharges, fuel table updates or FX moves can change the amount. Ask support to confirm all fees before the sender hands over the parcel.
Peak season
Holiday peaks tighten air capacity. Carriers publish peak surcharges; budget extra if your parcel ships into Q4 or Chinese New Year rush.