Hundredweight (CWT)
Definition
A unit of measure equal to 100 pounds, used by movers to calculate long-distance rates. If the rate is $50 per hundredweight and your shipment weighs 5,000 lbs, the linehaul charge is $2,500.
Hundredweight (abbreviated CWT) is the standard pricing unit for interstate household goods shipments. Long-distance movers quote rates in dollars per hundredweight for specific distance ranges.
Example calculation: your shipment weighs 6,000 lbs and the rate is $60 per CWT for your distance bracket. Linehaul charge = 6,000 / 100 x $60 = $3,600.
Rates per hundredweight decrease as shipment weight increases. A 3,000 lb shipment might be quoted at $80/CWT while a 10,000 lb shipment might be $55/CWT for the same distance. This is because fixed costs (truck, driver, fuel) are spread over more weight.
The linehaul charge is only part of the total cost. Accessorial charges (stair carries, long carries, shuttle service), valuation charges, and packing charges are added separately.
To understand your quote, ask the mover for a breakdown showing: the estimated weight, the rate per CWT, the linehaul total, and each accessorial charge itemized.