Basic tariffs for cargo transportation: what the market shows
Recent research suggests that the average transportation tariff is approximately 7.82 rubles per ton-kilometer. But what does it mean?
Let's imagine a typical situation: you need to ship a ton of products from Moscow to St. Petersburg (about 700 km). The basic calculation of the shipping cost looks like this:
7.82 rubles × 700 km = 5474 rubles per ton of cargo
However, the actual price may vary significantly. Because transport logistics is a complex system with many variables.
What determines the cost of transporting one ton?
Although the basic tariff provides a guideline, the actual shipping price is influenced by several factors:
Transportation distance
The further the path, the higher the total cost. But an interesting caveat: the price per kilometer often decreases as the distance increases.
The nature of the cargo
Depending on the freight rate:
- Standard (building materials, long—term storage products) - basic tariff
- Fragile goods — margin up to 25%
- Perishable products are more expensive by 30-40% due to the need for refrigerators
- Oversized — it can double in size
Download volume
When you fill the entire truck (FTL — Full Truck Load), the cost of transportation is significantly reduced. A full load of a standard truck will cost about 4.8 rubles per ton-kilometer — this is 40% more profitable than the average market tariff!
Seasonality and market situation
In summer, there is a traditional peak in demand for cargo transportation, which has led to an increase in base rates by 10-15%. A slight decrease is expected in winter, but not more than 5-7%.
Additional factors affecting the price of transportation
New regulatory changes
This year, two key innovations that have affected tariffs have come into force.:
- GosLog system is a digital registry for transportation control. Despite the concerns, she increased the shipping cost by only 3-5%.
- The increase in excise taxes on diesel fuel to 12120 rubles/ton led to an increase in fuel prices, but due to the improvement of logistics chains, the overall increase in tariffs turned out to be moderate — about 7%.
Shortage of drivers
The shortage of qualified truckers has led to an increase in salaries in the sector and, as a result, prices have increased by 8-10% compared to last year.
Fuel costs
On average, diesel fuel costs about 65 rubles/liter. This is a significant part of the carriers' costs — about 30-35% of the total flight expenses.
How to save money on shipping tons of cargo?
- Plan ahead. Urgency costs are 15-30% more expensive than planned.
- Combine loads. A full load of transport will result in savings of up to 40%.
- Choose a low season. In winter (except for the New Year period) and in spring, rates are usually lower.
- Compare offers. Online calculators such as Freightrate or ATI.su , will help you find the best option.
- Sign long-term contracts. Regular customers receive discounts of up to 15%.
How much does it actually cost to transport a ton of cargo?
To summarize our analysis, we can say that the average transportation is about 7820 rubles per 1000 km of travel. However, this figure varies depending on the route, the volume of the shipment and the season.
To get an accurate calculation of the delivery exactly for you, we recommend using specialized calculators or contacting the shipping companies directly. A competent approach to choosing a carrier and logistics planning will help optimize costs even in an unstable market.
And what experience do you have in organizing cargo transportation? Share your cost-reduction life hacks in the comments!
