Knowing the product cost is only half the story—landed cost tells the truth.
A 1-ton electric hoist typically costs $150–$600 FOB from China and $2,500–$6,700 from branded U.S./EU suppliers. Import costs depend on freight, duty, and destination fees.
A client once asked why their $400 hoist “turned into $950” after arrival. Let’s go through why that happens—and how to plan better next time.
[Table of contents]
- What is the price range of a 1-ton electric hoist?
- What affects the price variation of electric hoists?
- How do you calculate import costs for hoists?
- What taxes and duties apply when importing hoists?
- How do I estimate the total landed cost of a hoist?
What is the price range of a 1-ton electric hoist?
Price depends on origin, brand, and function.
The base FOB price from Chinese suppliers ranges from $150 to $600. Branded hoists from the U.S. or EU may cost $2,800 to $6,700 retail.
Dive Deeper
| Supplier Type | Price (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Alibaba / China (FOB) | $150–$600 | No accessories, bulk pricing |
| Local OEM (India, Vietnam) | $400–$900 | Moderate quality, regional support |
| Branded (CM, Demag) | $2,800–$6,700 | Certified, longer warranty |
Don’t forget—prices vary based on lift height, speed, remote control, and trolley add-ons.
What affects the price variation of electric hoists?
Several factors shape the cost beyond just lifting capacity.
Brand, voltage, duty rating, control method, and safety certifications can all significantly impact the final price.
Dive Deeper
- Duty cycle (S3/H4/M5): Continuous-use hoists cost more
- Voltage compatibility: 3-phase units may be pricier
- Control options: Remote control adds ~$100–$300
- Safety: UL/CE certification increases cost
- Packaging/shipping method: Wooden crates vs. pallets
For importers, even packaging style can affect cubic weight and freight cost.
How do you calculate import costs for hoists?
Use the CIF (Cost + Insurance + Freight) model plus taxes.
Add product cost, international shipping, insurance, duty, customs brokerage, and domestic delivery to get your total import cost.
Dive Deeper
| Cost Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Product Price (FOB) | Ex-factory or port of loading price |
| Ocean Freight (CIF) | Freight + insurance to destination port |
| Import Duty | % of CIF value (see next section) |
| VAT / Sales Tax | Based on local tax rules |
| Customs Brokerage | $50–$150 per shipment |
| Inland Transport | Port to warehouse delivery cost |
What taxes and duties apply when importing hoists?
Tariff rates vary by country and classification code.
In the U.S., hoists under HS code 8425.19 typically face a 2.5%–25% duty, depending on origin and trade policy.
Dive Deeper
- USA: 2.5% base duty + up to 25% Section 301 tariff (China origin)
- EU: 3–6% duty + VAT (~20%)
- India: Basic customs duty 10% + GST 18%
- Gulf: Duty around 5%, low VAT (~5%)
Check your country’s current HS code tariff list or consult a freight forwarder.
How do I estimate the total landed cost of a hoist?
Here’s a simplified example to help with budgeting.
For a $300 1-ton hoist FOB China, the total landed cost to the U.S. could be ~$780 depending on tariffs and shipping method.
Dive Deeper
| Cost Element | Example Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| FOB Price | $300 |
| Ocean Freight + Insurance | $120 |
| CIF Total | $420 |
| Import Duty (25%) | $105 |
| Brokerage & Fees | $65 |
| Inland Transport | $90 |
| Estimated Landed Cost | $780 |
Always add a 10% buffer for fluctuations in rates, currency, or paperwork delays.
Conclusion
A $300 hoist can quickly become a $750 hoist. Plan for it.
