Weight vs Volume in Determination of Freight Charges - Essay Example

For instance, a plane of 848 cargos can carry 120,000 lbs. If it exceeds, the plane will not fly and might as well violate the air transport rules set up by federal and state governments. In America, bulk coal long-distance rates are one cent/ton-mile thus a 50 car train carrying each carrying 150 tons over 100 miles will cost $15000 (Behrens, Kristian & Pierre 129)

In using weight in the determination of freight charges, the shippers take into consideration fuel consumed as it considers the density of the goods (w = ρ × v) and hence ensure that they do not transport at a loss and ensure that they fully utilize the road load supporting capacity. However, it may lead to charging low rates when the cargo is of less weighty goods. In using volume, the capacity of the shipping vehicle remains underutilized. However, the shippers reap maximally even from goods that would be less costly for them to deliver considering fuel consumed.