UPS Dimensional Weight Calculator 2020
Calculate the billable shipping weight for your UPS packages.
Enter Package Details
Billable Weight (lbs)
—
Calculation Details
Dimensional Weight: — lbs
Actual Weight: — lbs
Determining Factor: — (Billable weight is the greater of dimensional or actual weight)
Formula Used: (Length × Width × Height) / Dimensional Factor
| Weight Type | Value (lbs) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Actual Weight | — | The measured weight of the package. |
| Dimensional Weight | — | Calculated based on package size. |
| Billable Weight | — | The greater of Actual or Dimensional Weight; used for shipping charges. |
What is UPS Dimensional Weight?
UPS Dimensional Weight, often referred to as "dim weight," is a method used by shipping carriers like UPS to determine the billable weight of a package. Instead of solely relying on the actual weight measured by a scale, carriers also consider the package's volume. This is because larger, lighter packages take up more space on transport vehicles, and the space they occupy has a cost associated with it. The UPS dimensional weight calculator 2020 (and subsequent years with similar methodologies) helps shippers understand how this calculation impacts their shipping costs. Essentially, UPS charges for whichever weight is greater: the package's actual weight or its calculated dimensional weight.
Who Should Use the UPS Dimensional Weight Calculator?
Any business or individual that ships packages via UPS, especially those dealing with bulky or lightweight items, should understand and utilize the UPS dimensional weight concept. This includes:
- E-commerce businesses
- Manufacturers and distributors
- Online retailers
- Logistics and fulfillment centers
- Anyone frequently sending packages
Understanding dimensional weight allows shippers to optimize their packaging, potentially saving significant amounts on shipping fees by using appropriately sized boxes and consolidating shipments where possible. This is crucial for managing shipping expenses, especially for businesses with high shipping volumes.
Common Misconceptions about Dimensional Weight
Several common misunderstandings surround dimensional weight:
- "It only applies to large packages." While more impactful on large, light items, dim weight is calculated for all packages except those that are extremely dense.
- "It's the same as actual weight." This is incorrect. Dim weight is a calculation based on volume, while actual weight is what a scale reads. The billable weight is always the higher of the two.
- "The factor is always the same." UPS uses different dimensional factors depending on the service and destination (e.g., domestic US vs. international vs. Canada). Always confirm the correct factor.
- "It's a scam to charge more." It's a standardized pricing method reflecting the cost of transporting volume, not just mass.
A reliable UPS dimensional weight calculator 2020 helps demystify these calculations.
UPS Dimensional Weight Formula and Mathematical Explanation
The core of understanding UPS dimensional weight lies in its calculation formula. UPS, like most carriers, uses a standard formula to derive this value. The calculation is straightforward but requires accurate measurements.
Step-by-Step Derivation
1. Measure Dimensions: Obtain the Length (L), Width (W), and Height (H) of the package in inches. For accurate dim weight calculation, UPS requires you to measure the longest dimension as Length, the second longest as Width, and the shortest as Height.
2. Calculate Volume: Multiply the three dimensions together: Volume = L × W × H. This gives you the total cubic volume of the package.
3. Apply Dimensional Factor: Divide the calculated volume by the applicable UPS dimensional factor. The dimensional factor is a constant number set by UPS that represents the relationship between volume and weight for pricing purposes. Common factors include 139 for US domestic and international shipments and 166 for shipments to Canada.
4. Determine Billable Weight: Compare the calculated dimensional weight to the package's actual weight (measured in pounds). The higher of these two values becomes the billable weight upon which shipping charges are based.
Variable Explanations
- Length (L): The longest dimension of the package (in inches).
- Width (W): The second longest dimension of the package (in inches).
- Height (H): The shortest dimension of the package (in inches).
- Volume: The space occupied by the package, calculated as L × W × H (in cubic inches).
- Dimensional Factor: A divisor provided by UPS that converts volume into a weight equivalent. This factor can vary by region and service.
- Dimensional Weight: The calculated weight based on volume, derived using the formula: (L × W × H) / Dimensional Factor (in pounds).
- Actual Weight: The true weight of the package as measured by a scale (in pounds).
- Billable Weight: The greater value between the Actual Weight and the Dimensional Weight (in pounds).
Variables Table
The following table outlines the key variables involved in the UPS dimensional weight calculation:
| Variable | Meaning | Unit | Typical Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length (L) | Longest dimension of the package | Inches (in) | 1+ |
| Width (W) | Second longest dimension of the package | Inches (in) | 1+ |
| Height (H) | Shortest dimension of the package | Inches (in) | 1+ |
| Volume | Total cubic space occupied by the package | Cubic Inches (in³) | 1+ |
| Dimensional Factor | Carrier-specific constant to convert volume to weight | (lbs/in³) equivalent (unitless divisor) | 139, 166 (common UPS values) |
| Dimensional Weight | Weight calculated from package volume | Pounds (lbs) | Varies |
| Actual Weight | Measured weight of the package | Pounds (lbs) | Varies |
| Billable Weight | Greater of Actual Weight or Dimensional Weight | Pounds (lbs) | Varies |
Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)
Let's illustrate the UPS dimensional weight calculation with practical examples using the UPS dimensional weight calculator 2020 methodology.
Example 1: E-commerce Order (Bulky Item)
An online retailer ships a lightweight but bulky decorative pillow.
- Dimensions: 20 inches (Length) × 15 inches (Width) × 8 inches (Height)
- Actual Weight: 3 lbs
- Dimensional Factor: 139 (US Domestic)
Calculation:
Volume = 20 in × 15 in × 8 in = 2400 in³
Dimensional Weight = 2400 in³ / 139 = 17.27 lbs
Comparison:
Dimensional Weight (17.27 lbs) > Actual Weight (3 lbs)
Billable Weight: 17.27 lbs
Interpretation: Even though the pillow only weighs 3 pounds, the retailer will be charged for 17.27 pounds due to its size. This highlights the importance of using appropriately sized packaging for bulky items.
Example 2: Small, Dense Item
A business ships a small, heavy electronic component.
- Dimensions: 10 inches (Length) × 8 inches (Width) × 6 inches (Height)
- Actual Weight: 15 lbs
- Dimensional Factor: 139 (US Domestic)
Calculation:
Volume = 10 in × 8 in × 6 in = 480 in³
Dimensional Weight = 480 in³ / 139 = 3.45 lbs
Comparison:
Actual Weight (15 lbs) > Dimensional Weight (3.45 lbs)
Billable Weight: 15 lbs
Interpretation: In this case, the actual weight is significantly higher than the dimensional weight. The shipper will be charged based on the actual weight of 15 lbs, as it is the higher value.
How to Use This UPS Dimensional Weight Calculator
Using our UPS dimensional weight calculator 2020 is designed to be simple and efficient. Follow these steps to get your billable weight:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Measure Your Package: Carefully measure the Length, Width, and Height of your package in inches. Ensure you identify the longest dimension as Length, the second longest as Width, and the shortest as Height.
- Weigh Your Package: Use an accurate scale to determine the Actual Weight of the package in pounds.
- Select the Dimensional Factor: Choose the correct UPS Dimensional Factor from the dropdown menu. This depends on your shipping destination (e.g., 139 for most US domestic and international shipments, 166 for Canada). If unsure, consult UPS documentation or contact them directly.
- Enter Values: Input the measured Length, Width, Height, and Actual Weight into the respective fields in the calculator.
- Calculate: Click the "Calculate" button.
How to Read Results
The calculator will display:
- Billable Weight: This is the primary result, shown prominently. It is the higher value between the calculated dimensional weight and the actual weight. This is the weight UPS will use to determine your shipping cost.
- Dimensional Weight: The weight calculated based on the package's volume and the chosen dimensional factor.
- Actual Weight: The weight you entered.
- Determining Factor: A note indicating whether the dimensional or actual weight was greater.
- Comparison Table: A summary table breaking down each weight type and the final billable weight.
- Chart: A visual comparison between the actual and dimensional weights.
Decision-Making Guidance
The results from the calculator can inform several business decisions:
- Packaging Optimization: If the dimensional weight is significantly higher than the actual weight, consider using smaller boxes or different packing materials to reduce the volume.
- Shipping Service Selection: Understanding the potential billable weight can help you compare costs across different UPS services or even different carriers.
- Cost Allocation: For businesses that charge shipping based on weight, this calculation ensures accurate cost recovery.
- Inventory Management: Knowing the size of items shipped can influence decisions about inventory storage and product design.
Use the "Copy Results" button to save or share the details of your calculation.
Key Factors That Affect UPS Dimensional Weight Results
Several factors influence the final billable weight calculated using the UPS dimensional weight method. Understanding these is key to managing shipping costs effectively:
-
Package Dimensions (L x W x H):
This is the most direct factor. Larger dimensions result in greater volume, increasing the dimensional weight. Even slight increases in length, width, or height can significantly impact the final billable weight, especially for bulky items.
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Actual Weight:
While dim weight is based on volume, the actual weight remains critical. If the actual weight is greater than the calculated dimensional weight, the actual weight becomes the billable weight. This is typical for dense, heavy items.
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UPS Dimensional Factor:
The divisor used in the calculation (e.g., 139 or 166) is set by UPS and can vary. A higher dimensional factor will result in a lower dimensional weight for the same package size. Shippers must use the correct factor for their specific service and destination to ensure accurate calculations.
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Packaging Material & Method:
The choice of box size, cushioning materials, and how items are packed can affect the final dimensions. Over-packaging can lead to unnecessarily high dimensional weights. Conversely, under-packaging might lead to damage and claims.
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Shipping Service Level:
While the dimensional weight calculation methodology is standard, the dimensional factor itself can sometimes vary based on the service level (e.g., UPS Ground vs. UPS Air Cargo) or the destination country. Always verify the correct factor for the specific service chosen.
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Package Irregularities:
UPS has specific rules for irregularly shaped packages. They often require all dimensions to be measured from the furthest points, which can increase the calculated volume and thus the dimensional weight. Some very heavy items may also have surcharges regardless of their size.
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Rounding Rules:
UPS typically rounds up fractional weights to the next whole pound (or kilogram, depending on the context). This means a calculated dimensional weight of 17.27 lbs becomes 18 lbs for billing purposes. Our calculator displays the precise value before any potential carrier-specific rounding, but the billable weight presented is the direct comparison.