Weight Ton is a unit used in international trade and shipping to calculate cargo weight or freight. It usually refers to the metric ton (1,000 kg), but in countries using the imperial system it may also refer to the long ton (1,016 kg) or the short ton (907.2 kg). It is used in: ocean freight calculation (e.g., charged by weight ton), port handling charges, and ship deadweight tonnage. Note: the contract or letter of credit must clearly specify which ton system applies to avoid cost disputes caused by differences in tonnage systems; also distinguish weight ton from measurement ton, which is charged by cargo volume. The two are often used in LCL freight calculation, with the higher one applied. The difference from 'freight ton' is that freight ton is the general term for weight ton and measurement ton, and which one is used for charging depends on the nature of the cargo. Foreign trade practitioners should clearly mark the type of weight ton when booking space, declaring customs, and settling accounts to ensure consistency of documents.
📝 Examples
1. This batch of cargo totals 50 weight tons. Calculated at USD 120 per weight ton, the total freight is USD 6,000. (Note: In bulk ocean shipping, freight is charged by weight ton.)
2. Please confirm whether the weight ton in the contract is a metric ton or a long ton, so as to avoid disputes at settlement. (Note: This reminds parties to pay attention to differences in tonnage systems and avoid trade disputes.)
💡 Foreign Trade Tips
Foreign trade terms are the foundation of international business communication
Trade practices may vary slightly by country; pay attention when using them
When using terms in contracts, specify the applicable version (e.g., Incoterms 2020)
For unfamiliar terms, use GlobalSync's multilingual email helper to confirm with your partner