Heavy parcels — industrial equipment, large appliances, sports gear and multi-box shipments.
The 20–70 kg weight band is where courier pricing becomes expensive quickly, and where the comparison between courier and pallet freight becomes important. Most standard couriers (DHL, UPS, FedEx) accept parcels up to 70 kg per item, but rates escalate steeply — a 50 kg parcel to Germany may cost €80–€150 by courier, while an equivalent shipment on a pallet could cost €90–€180 total (but can carry far more total weight). DPD and GLS often cap at 50 kg. For single heavy parcels within courier limits, DHL and UPS are typically best. For multiple heavy parcels going to the same address, pallet freight is almost always more economical.
| Destination | Economy | Express | Transit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇪🇸 Spain | €20–€40 | €45–€80 | 1–2 days |
| 🇫🇷 France | €30–€60 | €65–€120 | 2–4 days |
| 🇩🇪 Germany | €35–€75 | €80–€145 | 3–5 days |
| 🇬🇧 UK | €40–€85 | €90–€165 | 3–5 days |
| 🇮🇹 Italy | €33–€70 | €75–€140 | 3–5 days |
| 🇳🇱 Netherlands | €34–€72 | €78–€142 | 3–5 days |
| 🇺🇸 USA | €90–€200 | €180–€380 | 3–7 days |
| 🇧🇷 Brazil | €100–€230 | €220–€450 | 5–10 days |
Indicative ranges — actual prices vary by carrier, dimensions and service. Get an exact quote below.
At 20–70 kg, always compare courier vs pallet freight on Cargosender. Pallet freight handles multiple heavy boxes as one consignment, often at a better total cost for 2+ heavy parcels.
DPD and GLS have 50 kg weight limits — items over 50 kg must use DHL, UPS or FedEx (max 70 kg), or switch to pallet freight.
Dimension limits are critical at this weight band. A 50 kg parcel that is too long (over 120 cm) will require specialist oversized freight regardless of weight.
Express vs economy cost gap is largest in this weight band — express for 50 kg to the USA can be €150 more than economy. Evaluate urgency carefully.
For recurring heavy parcel shipments, volume contracts with carriers give significantly better per-kg rates than spot pricing.
Bundle multiple items into one heavy parcel rather than several separate parcels — most carriers give better per-kg rates at higher weights.
At 30 kg+, always run a pallet freight comparison alongside courier quotes — pallet is often cheaper for 2+ heavy boxes.
Reinforce boxes for heavy items: use triple-wall corrugated boxes rated for the load, and tape the base in a crosshatch pattern.
For machine parts and industrial items, consider whether the item needs a wooden crate (usually required over 50 kg for delicate machinery).
DHL and UPS offer better per-kg rates than DPD/GLS for heavy parcels — check all carriers on Cargosender.
A single 30 kg parcel: courier (DHL or UPS) to Germany costs approximately €45–€75. Pallet freight (LTL) to Germany for one EUR pallet (which can carry 250–500 kg) costs approximately €90–€150 total, but can hold far more goods. For a single 30 kg box, courier is usually cheaper. For 3+ heavy boxes, pallet freight wins.
DHL Express accepts parcels up to 70 kg per piece. DHL eCommerce and DHL Freight have different limits. UPS also accepts up to 70 kg per parcel. FedEx accepts up to 68 kg. DPD and GLS typically cap at 50 kg. Over 70 kg, you need pallet freight.
For a 50 kg machine part, use DHL or UPS (both accept up to 70 kg). Ensure the part is in a sturdy double or triple-wall box or wooden crate, with all protruding elements wrapped. Declare the value correctly on the customs form. Compare rates on Cargosender — DHL and UPS are typically best for heavy single parcels.
The carrier is applying volumetric weight. If your 25 kg box is 60×55×50 cm: volumetric weight = 60×55×50÷5000 = 33 kg. Since 33 > 25, you pay for 33 kg. To reduce the charge, use a smaller box — reduce each dimension by 5 cm: 55×50×45 cm = 24.75 kg volumetric, which is less than actual weight.
Yes — this is called a multi-piece shipment. You book one consignment with multiple pieces, each with its own label linked to the same tracking number. Most carriers accept multi-piece shipments up to their per-piece weight limits. This is more efficient than separate bookings and may qualify for multi-piece discounts.
Compare DHL, UPS, FedEx, DPD and GLS — live rates for your shipment.
Get a Free Quote →