Hundredweight (CWT)
Also known as: CWT, Cwt Pricing, Per Hundred Pounds
Definition
Hundredweight (CWT) is a unit of measure equal to 100 pounds, used for pricing freight shipments. Rather than per-package rates, CWT pricing charges based on total shipment weight in 100-pound increments.
How CWT Pricing Works
Rate per CWT × (Total Weight ÷ 100) = Shipping Cost
Example:
- Shipment weight: 850 lbs
- Rate: $25 per CWT
- Cost: $25 × 8.5 = $212.50
When CWT Pricing Applies
- LTL freight shipments
- Multi-package parcel shipments (UPS/FedEx)
- High-volume shippers
- Palletized goods
CWT vs. Per-Package Pricing
| CWT | Per Package |
|---|---|
| Bulk shipments | Individual parcels |
| Weight-based | Package count-based |
| Lower per-lb cost | Higher per-lb cost |
| Minimum weights apply | No minimums |
CWT Minimums
Carriers often require minimum weights:
- UPS/FedEx CWT: 200+ lbs
- LTL: 500+ lbs typically
- Below minimum = per-package rates
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