Lightweight parcels — documents, small goods, clothing samples and gifts under 5 kg from Portugal.
Parcels under 5 kg are the most common international shipment category — covering everything from clothing and books to small electronics, documents and samples. For this weight band, all major couriers offer competitive rates. DPD and GLS are typically the cheapest for EU destinations at economy speed. DHL Express and FedEx are faster but 2–3× more expensive. Always check whether your parcel's volumetric weight exceeds its actual weight — a lightweight bulky box can be charged at a higher weight tier.
| Destination | Economy | Express | Transit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇪🇸 Spain | €4–€8 | €10–€18 | 1–2 days |
| 🇫🇷 France | €6–€10 | €14–€22 | 2–4 days |
| 🇩🇪 Germany | €7–€12 | €16–€25 | 3–5 days |
| 🇬🇧 UK | €8–€14 | €18–€30 | 3–5 days |
| 🇮🇹 Italy | €7–€13 | €15–€26 | 3–5 days |
| 🇳🇱 Netherlands | €7–€12 | €15–€24 | 3–5 days |
| 🇺🇸 USA | €18–€35 | €35–€65 | 3–7 days |
| 🇧🇷 Brazil | €22–€40 | €45–€80 | 5–10 days |
Indicative ranges — actual prices vary by carrier, dimensions and service. Get an exact quote below.
Volumetric weight: calculate L×W×H (cm) ÷ 5000. If greater than actual weight, you pay the volumetric rate. For a 5kg parcel in a 30×25×20cm box, volumetric weight = 3kg — actual weight wins. But a 1kg item in a 40×30×30cm box = 7.2kg volumetric — you pay for 7.2kg.
Destination zone: Spain (Zone 1) is closest and cheapest. USA, Brazil and Asia are Zone 5–7+ and cost significantly more regardless of weight.
Service level: economy road services (DPD/GLS) are 40–60% cheaper than express air services (DHL Express/FedEx).
Residential surcharge: most carriers add €1–€4 extra for delivery to a home address vs a business address.
Fuel surcharge: all carriers add a variable fuel surcharge (typically 5–20%) on top of the base rate — already included in Cargosender quotes.
Use DPD or GLS for EU shipments under 5 kg — typically the best price-to-reliability ratio.
Right-size your box — a smaller box means lower volumetric weight and a lower price.
For documents and items under 500g, compare the letter/document service rate vs small parcel rate.
Avoid packing fillers that add weight — use minimal void fill for lightweight shipments.
For recurring shipments, a Cargosender business account unlocks volume discounts across all carriers.
DPD or GLS economy road service is typically the cheapest option at €7–€12 for a 5 kg parcel to Germany, with 4–6 day transit. DHL Express or FedEx will deliver in 2–3 days for €16–€25. Compare live rates on Cargosender to see today's best price.
Economy road service (DPD, GLS): 3–5 business days. Express air service (DHL Express, FedEx): 1–2 business days. The most direct economy route from Portugal to France is via road through Spain, with most carriers offering 3–4 day delivery.
Yes. Couriers charge the greater of actual weight or volumetric weight (L×W×H÷5000). For a 5 kg parcel in a large box, the volumetric weight might be higher than 5 kg and you pay the volumetric rate. Always use the smallest appropriate box for lightweight items.
Yes. Poly mailers are accepted by all major couriers for soft goods under 5 kg. A poly mailer weighs almost nothing and has low volumetric dimensions — making it cost-effective for clothing. Ensure the mailer is sturdy (at least 60-micron thickness) and sealed with a clear self-adhesive label cover.
Most couriers accept parcels up to 120×80×80 cm (DHL, FedEx, UPS) for standard parcel service. For DPD and GLS, maximum dimensions are typically 80×60×60 cm or similar. Always check the carrier's current limits — oversized parcels attract additional handling fees even at low weights.
Compare DHL, UPS, FedEx, DPD and GLS — live rates for your shipment.
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