Freight & Parcel Shipping Calculator
Economy (5-7 days)
Standard (3-5 days)
Express (1-2 days)
Overnight (Next Day)
Actual Weight:
0 kg
Volumetric Weight:
0 kg
Chargeable Weight:
0 kg
Estimated Total:
$0.00
How Shipping Costs Are Calculated
Calculating the cost of shipping involves more than just weighing a box. Logistical providers use a combination of physical weight, dimensions, and distance to determine the final price. Our calculator uses industry-standard formulas to help you estimate your freight or parcel expenses before you head to the courier.
Understanding Volumetric Weight (DIM Weight)
One of the most important concepts in shipping is Volumetric Weight, also known as Dimensional (DIM) weight. This reflects the package density, which is the amount of space a package occupies in relation to its actual weight.
The standard formula for volumetric weight is:
(Length × Width × Height) / 5000 = Volumetric Weight in kg
Shipping carriers will bill you based on the Chargeable Weight, which is whichever value is higher: the actual scale weight or the volumetric weight. This ensures that light but bulky items (like a box of pillows) are priced fairly alongside small, heavy items (like a box of lead weights).
Key Factors Influencing Your Shipping Quote
- Distance: The total mileage or kilometer count between the origin and destination. Rates usually increase by "zones."
- Shipping Mode: Faster delivery speeds require air transport or dedicated logistics, which significantly increase the price compared to ground economy services.
- Fuel Surcharges: Most carriers apply a fluctuating percentage based on current oil prices.
- Handling Fees: Items that are fragile, hazardous, or non-stackable often incur additional surcharges.
Example Calculation
Suppose you are shipping a package that weighs 5 kg with dimensions of 50cm x 40cm x 30cm over a distance of 1,000 km using Express service.
- Actual Weight: 5 kg
- Volumetric Weight: (50 * 40 * 30) / 5000 = 12 kg
- Chargeable Weight: 12 kg (since 12 > 5)
- Base Rate Calculation: If the base rate is $0.50 per kg and $0.05 per km, the cost is (12 * 0.50) + (1000 * 0.05) = $56.00.
- Speed Multiplier: Applying an Express multiplier (2.2x), the final estimated cost would be approximately $123.20.