When shopping internationally with Sugargoo, shipping fees can sometimes be confusing. You may notice that the estimated shipping cost shown at the beginning is not always the same as the final cost after your parcels are packed. This is where Pre-shipment Package Simulation, a value-added service from Sugargoo, comes in. It helps you know the accurate package weight and cost before shipping, saving you from surprises and extra charges.
Why Pre-shipment Package Simulation Matters
The estimated shipping cost is calculated based on the weight of the goods, the package dimensions, and the packaging materials required before the parcel is packed. However, this estimated weight may differ from the actual shipping weight.
After you pay the shipping fee, the Sugargoo Packing Center consolidates and packs your parcels. At that point, the final shipping cost is recalculated based on the accurate weight. Any difference between the estimated and final costs will either be refunded or charged additionally.
👉 To avoid this, Sugargoo offers the Pre-shipment Package Simulation service. By using it, you can know the actual weight and volumetric weight of your parcel in advance, ensuring that the correct shipping cost is applied.
If you’re a first-time user, check out this Taobao agent guide or this Sugargoo story to understand how Sugargoo works for international buyers.
What Is Actual Weight?
Actual weight refers to the total of:
- The weight of all purchased goods
- The weight of basic packaging materials
- The weight of any extra protective add-ons
Example: A pair of shoes weighs 2kg, the shoebox adds 0.3kg, and bubble wrap adds 0.2kg → the actual shipping weight is 2.5kg.
👉 Learn more about protective add-ons in this delivery add-on guide.
What Is Volumetric Weight?
Volumetric weight is used when an item takes up more space than its actual weight would suggest. Logistics providers often charge by volumetric weight in such cases.
Formula:Length (cm) × Width (cm) × Height (cm) ÷ 5000/6000/7000/8000 (the divisor depends on the carrier’s standard).
Example: A lightweight winter coat may weigh only 1kg, but once packed, the large dimensions make its volumetric weight 3kg. The shipping cost will be based on 3kg.
If you want to dive deeper into reducing costs, check this shipping savings guide.
How to Use Pre-shipment Package Simulation (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Enter the Packing Center and Start Simulation
- Click your profile icon to enter the Packing Center.
- Select the items you want to estimate shipping for.
- Choose the destination country or region.
- Click “Rehearsal Shipping” to run the pre-shipment simulation.
Step 2: Review Goods and Add Services
- Check your goods list carefully.
- Select any parcel value-added services you may need (such as corner protectors, vacuum packaging, reinforced boxes).
👉 If you plan to merge items, check this consolidation guide to combine multiple orders into one package on Sugargoo.
Step 3: Choose Logistics Route
- Review available shipping lines.
- Select the logistics route that best fits your delivery time and cost requirements.
You may also want to read this shipping lines guide for comparisons by country.
👉 And if your parcel is headed to Canada, Australia, the UK, Spain, or the Netherlands, check the dedicated route pages for each region:
These guides also highlight which carriers calculate by actual weight, helping you choose the most cost-efficient option.
Step 4: Confirm and Check Out
- Click “Check Out” to confirm the simulation.
- The pre-packaging service fee is displayed (18 CNY ≈ USD 2.5).
Step 5: Select Payment Method
- Choose a payment method (Balance, Credit Card, PayPal, Wise, etc.).
- Click “Pay Now” to complete the pre-shipment package simulation request.
👉 For a complete overview, see this payment methods guide and this payment tutorial.
Step 6: View Simulation Results
- After payment, go to Rehearsal Shipping to see the results.
- The system displays both Actual Weight and Volumetric Weight, giving you the accurate billing weight before shipping.
When Should You Use This Service?
- For bulky but lightweight items such as coats, pillows, or bedding.
- When consolidating multiple parcels to check how the final packed weight will change.
- For resellers or business buyers who need precise cost control before confirming shipment.
👉 Business users may also like this business sourcing guide.
Save More with Accurate Weights
The Pre-shipment Package Simulation is a small investment (18 CNY, around USD 2.5) that can save you from costly surprises in international shipping. By knowing your actual and volumetric weight in advance, you gain transparency and control over your logistics budget.
👉 New users can also enjoy 800 CNY in shipping coupons after registering, which can be applied to these pre-calculated shipping fees for even more savings. See details here: How to Claim and Use the CNY 800 Shipping Coupons.
And if you’re still unsure, check this safety guide and Sugargoo review for more in-depth insights.