Formula: Length × Width × Height = Volume. Based on selected unit inputs converted to Cubic Feet.
Weight Comparison Chart
Figure 1: Comparison of Actual Gross Weight vs. Calculated Volumetric Weight.
Metric
Value
Unit
Total Pieces
0
pcs
Total Gross Weight
0.00
kg
Volumetric Weight
0.00
kg
Billable Weight
0.00
kg
Table 1: Detailed breakdown of shipment metrics for billing estimation.
Comprehensive Guide to CFT Weight Calculation in Logistics
Understanding the relationship between volume and weight is crucial in logistics and shipping. A cft weight calculator helps shippers, freight forwarders, and logistics managers determine the chargeable weight of a shipment based on its dimensions (Cubic Feet) rather than just its gross weight. This ensures accurate billing and capacity planning across air, sea, and road freight sectors.
What is a CFT Weight Calculator?
A CFT (Cubic Feet) Weight Calculator is a digital tool designed to compute the volume of a shipment in cubic feet and convert that volume into a theoretical weight known as "Volumetric" or "Dimensional" weight. Freight carriers use this metric to maximize their revenue, ensuring they don't lose money on lightweight, bulky items that take up significant space.
Typically, carriers will charge based on whichever is higher: the Actual Gross Weight (what the scale reads) or the Volumetric Weight (calculated from CFT). This tool is essential for:
Exporters & Importers: To estimate shipping costs accurately.
Warehouse Managers: For space planning and inventory density analysis.
E-commerce Sellers: To determine shipping fees for bulky products.
CFT Weight Calculator Formula and Explanation
The calculation involves two main steps: determining the volume in Cubic Feet (CFT) and applying a density factor to find the Volumetric Weight. The math changes slightly depending on the input units (inches, cm, meters).
Step 1: Calculate Volume (CFT)
If dimensions are in inches:
CFT = (Length × Width × Height) ÷ 1728
If dimensions are in centimeters:
CFT = (Length × Width × Height) ÷ 28,317
Step 2: Calculate Volumetric Weight
Once you have the CFT or CBM (Cubic Meters), you apply a conversion factor. Common factors include:
Mode
Standard Formula (kg)
Approx lbs/CFT
Air Freight
CBM × 167
~10.4 lbs
Sea Freight
CBM × 1000
~62.4 lbs
Courier
(L×W×H in inches) ÷ 139
Variable
Practical Examples of CFT Weight Calculation
Example 1: Air Freight Shipment
Scenario: You are shipping 5 boxes via air freight. Each box measures 20 x 20 x 20 inches and weighs 15 kg.
Interpretation: Since the density is low compared to the volume limit, you are charged per CBM (1.8 freight tons) rather than the 400 kg weight.
How to Use This CFT Weight Calculator
Select Unit: Choose Inches, Cm, Feet, or Meters depending on your tape measure.
Select Mode: Choose Air, Sea, or Road to apply the correct density divisor.
Enter Dimensions: Input Length, Width, and Height.
Enter Quantity: If you have multiple identical pieces, input the count.
Review Results: The tool instantly calculates Total CFT, CBM, and the Chargeable Weight.
Key Factors That Affect CFT Weight Results
Several variables can influence the final chargeable weight in a cft weight calculator calculation:
Divisor Factor: Couriers often use 139 (inches/lbs), while standard air freight uses 166 or 167 (inches/lbs or kg/cbm). A lower divisor results in a higher chargeable weight.
Stackability: If pallets cannot be stacked, carriers may charge for the vertical "ghost" space up to the ceiling of the container.
Measurement Rounding: Carriers typically round up to the nearest inch or centimeter, which can significantly increase total CFT for large consignments.
Palletization: The dimensions of the pallet base and packing materials add to the total CFT, often increasing the billable volume by 10-15%.
Carrier Specifics: Different airlines or trucking companies may have unique density ratios based on their fleet capacity.
Unit Conversion Accuracy: Rounding errors during conversion from Inches to CBM can cause slight discrepancies in final billing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How many CFT make 1 CBM?
There are approximately 35.315 cubic feet in 1 cubic meter (CBM). To convert CBM to CFT, multiply by 35.315.
2. What is the difference between Actual Weight and Volumetric Weight?
Actual weight is the physical mass shown on a scale. Volumetric weight is a calculation based on the space the cargo occupies. Carriers charge based on the higher of the two.
3. Why do couriers use a 139 divisor?
The 139 divisor (dimensional factor) is used by major couriers like FedEx and UPS for retail shipping to account for the high value of cargo space in delivery vans and aircraft.
4. Does this calculator work for moving houses?
Yes. Movers often estimate costs based on total Cubic Feet (CFT) of furniture and boxes to determine the truck size needed.
5. Can I use CFT for Sea Freight?
Yes, but Sea Freight is more commonly quoted in CBM (Cubic Meters). This calculator provides both CFT and CBM outputs for convenience.
6. What is the standard density for Trucking?
LTL (Less than Truckload) carriers often use density-based freight classes. A standard density assumption might be around 10-15 lbs per cubic foot depending on the commodity class.
7. How do I calculate CFT for a cylinder?
Technically, a cylinder's volume is πr²h. However, in logistics, cylinders are usually treated as rectangular boxes (Diameter × Diameter × Height) because they cannot be stacked efficiently.
8. Is packaging included in the dimensions?
Yes, always measure the extreme points of the packaging, including pallets, handles, and straps.