Last Mile Delivery Cost Calculator
The final leg, which costs the most.
Last mile cost per parcel
$4.32
67.5% of total shipping cost
The last mile is typically more than half of total delivery cost, because it is the only leg that cannot be consolidated.
How the Last Mile Delivery Cost Calculator works
The last mile is routinely more than half of total delivery cost, because it is the only leg that cannot be consolidated. Everything before it moves in bulk; the final leg moves one parcel to one door, and the economics turn almost entirely on how many doors are close together.
Not financial advice. Marketplace fees change, and they vary by country, plan and seller status. Every rate here is an editable default, not a quoted price — check the platform's current fee schedule before you price a product against it. This is not tax or business advice.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the last mile so expensive?
Because it defeats economies of scale. Trunking moves thousands of parcels in one vehicle; the last mile moves one parcel per stop, with driver time, fuel and failed attempts all charged against a single item.
What is drop density and why does it matter?
Deliveries per mile or per hour. It is the single biggest driver of last mile cost — a dense urban route can be several times cheaper per parcel than a sparse rural one covering the same total distance.
How much do failed deliveries cost?
Roughly double, since the attempt is made and must be repeated. Failure rates of 5-10% are common for consumer deliveries without a safe place, which is why parcel lockers and neighbour delivery have spread so quickly.
How can a small seller reduce last mile cost?
Offer pickup points and lockers, which are consistently cheaper than door delivery, and encourage them with a small discount. Beyond that, most of the lever sits with the carrier rather than the shipper.