Courier Services
We offer courier services as an extra option for clients who require faster delivery times, express shipping or special handling.
We have access to major international and domestic courier companies that service Australia, such as DHL, UPS, Fedex, TNT, Startrack, Centurion, Couriers Please, Aramex and many others.
Through our contractual partnership with a leading courier solutions provider, ICE can source the best courier service available for the best price and instantly book freight for small cargo required on fast services.
- Regular clients with small consignments who don’t have time or don’t want to handle the admin import process themselves every time.
- Clients with odd-sized pieces of freight that won’t fit on a standard container or ULD.
- Clients who already have cargo shipped via traditional air or sea freight services but have individual items that need to be moved outside of these shipments for one reason or another.
- Clients at the beginning of their shipping journey importing sample cargo.
- For existing ICE clients with extra one-off shipments, ICE can book courier services on your behalf.
When ICE books domestic or international couriers on your behalf, you benefit from:
- More convenience
ICE can provide you with competitive courier services and multiple comparative options taking the administration headache away from you. We always advise our clients what courier we are quoting on so you can compare yourself or book directly with the courier if you would prefer.
- Book instantly, Pay only one invoice
Particularly if you are already an ICE client, it is much more convenient to ask us to book it instantly for you, as we already have all your details on file, including delivery addresses, and you can pay all at once, when we bill you as usual.
- Book under your existing credit terms
Outsource your courier services to ICE and benefit further from your existing ICE-credit terms. No need to apply for new credit terms with other courier providers or sign another contract. Let ICE take care of all your logistical requirements and streamline your operations with more convenience, less paperwork and easier payment process.
real freight experts
Book your next courier with ICE
Still unsure if your shipment is suitable for courier? We can help!
Whether you are a small business owner or an established company, we have the assets and expertise to provide the best international shipping solution for you.
Simply tell us your freight details (origin, destination, weight, dimensions and any specifics) and we will come back to you with a tailored solution within one business day.
FAQ SECTION
International Courier Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between international courier and express shipping?
International courier and express shipping often go hand-in-hand, but there’s a subtle difference in their focus. Express shipping prioritizes speed for deliveries, domestic or international, typically via air freight. The focus is on moving your cargo as fast as possible, while international courier offers shipping on standard – but still swift – timeframes.
How long does shipping via international courier take?
- Major courier companies (DHL, FedEx, UPS): As fast as 2-4 business days for major Australian cities.
- Standard international courier: 3-7 business days for metro areas, potentially longer for regional areas.
ICE will provide you with an ETA based on your origin and destination addresses.
How much does international courier shipping cost?
The cost depends on several factors like package weight, dimensions, destination, speed of delivery, and any declared value or special handling needs.
Please note that air freight (courier or not) is charged in volumetric ratio (or chargeable weight), as airlines charge based on either the actual weight of your shipment or its volumetric weight, whichever is higher.
Here’s how volumetric ratio works:
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The ratio itself: A common volumetric ratio in air freight is 1 cubic meter (cbm) to 167 kilograms (kg). This means that for every cubic meter of space your shipment occupies on the airplane, it will be charged as if it weighs 167kg, even if the actual weight is lower.
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Volumetric weight calculation: To calculate the volumetric weight of your shipment, you first need to find its volume in cubic centimeters (cm³). You can do this by multiplying the length (cm) x width (cm) x height (cm) of your package. Then, you divide the volume in cm³ by the volumetric ratio (e.g., 6000 cm³/kg which is equivalent to 1 m³/167kg). The resulting number is your volumetric weight in kilograms.
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Whichever is higher: The airline will compare your shipment’s actual weight and its volumetric weight. You’ll be charged based on the higher of the two weights.
What is the maximum weight that can be sent via courier?
The maximum weight that can be sent via courier depends on the specific courier company, but it generally falls within the range of 25kg to 32kg for individual packages due to occupational health and safety regulations to protect workers handling the packages.
Heavyweight options: Some couriers offer special services for heavy shipments with maximum weights reaching up to +70kg for individual packages or out-of-gauge items – these are goods that are odd in size or shape and cannot fit in a standard air freight container or pallet (ULD).
Can you ship dangerous goods via courier?
Not all couriers accept dangerous goods. Some courier companies have blanket bans on dangerous goods due to safety concerns. Specific types and quantities might be allowed. Even if a courier accepts dangerous goods, they might only accept certain categories (e.g., limited quantities of flammable liquids) and have strict packaging and labeling requirements.
Special handling and fees apply. Shipping dangerous goods requires special precautions, packaging and paperwork. Expect additional fees for handling and potentially higher insurance costs. Always engage your freight forwarder and customs broker so they can assist you with classifying your goods correctly and ensuring compliance.
