Shipping is often the biggest surprise expense for new CSSBuy users. This guide breaks down exactly what goes into your shipping cost and how to estimate it before you reach checkout.
Base Shipping Rates by Line
As of 2026, approximate first-kilogram rates to the USA:
- CSS-SEA – $8-12/kg (slow, best for large hauls)
- CSS-EXP – $12-18/kg (balanced speed and cost)
- DHL – $20-28/kg (fast, reliable, expensive)
- UPS/FedEx – $18-25/kg (fast, good for medium hauls)
- Small Packet – $5-10 flat for very small items
Volume Weight vs Actual Weight
You pay for whichever is greater. A 2kg box that measures 50×40×30cm has a volume weight of 12kg. You pay for 12kg, not 2kg. This is why repacking and removing shoeboxes saves money.
Additional Fees
Expect these extras:
- Service fee – 4-6% of item cost
- Packaging – $2-5 depending on box size
- Insurance – 3-5% of declared value
- Photo requests – Free basic, paid for detailed QC
- Repacking – $1-3 for consolidation or box removal
Sample Haul Cost
A typical 4kg clothing haul via CSS-EXP to the USA:
- Base shipping: $52
- Service fee (on $150 items): $9
- Packaging: $3
- Insurance: $5
- Total: approximately $69
Ways to Reduce Costs
- Vacuum seal clothing (reduces volume by 40-60%)
- Remove shoeboxes (saves 1-2kg volume per pair)
- Consolidate into one parcel instead of multiple
- Use CSS-SEA for non-urgent large hauls
- Apply active coupon codes at checkout
