Most couriers use 5000. Air freight often uses 6000.
Volumetric Weight
0.00 kg
Total Volume (Cubic CM):0 cm³
Applied Divisor:5000
Estimated Chargeable Weight:0.00 kg
Formula Used: (L × W × H) / Divisor
Figure 1: Comparison of Actual Weight vs. Volumetric Weight to determine Chargeable Weight.
Metric
Value
Unit
Length
0
cm
Width
0
cm
Height
0
cm
Total Cubic Volume
0
cm³
Table 1: Detailed breakdown of dimension and volume calculations.
Results copied to clipboard!
What is Volumetric Weight?
Volumetric weight (also known as dimensional weight or DIM weight) is a pricing technique used by commercial freight transport (including courier and postal services) which uses an estimated weight that is calculated from the length, width, and height of a package.
When you calculate volumetric weight from cubic cm, you are essentially determining the amount of space a package occupies in relation to its actual weight. Carriers usually charge based on the greater of the two: the actual physical weight or the volumetric weight. This ensures that shippers sending large, lightweight packages (like pillows or bubble wrap) pay for the space they occupy in the aircraft or truck.
This metric is crucial for logistics managers, e-commerce business owners, and individuals shipping international parcels. Understanding how to calculate volumetric weight allows for better budgeting and package optimization to reduce shipping costs.
Volumetric Weight Formula and Explanation
The standard formula to calculate volumetric weight from cubic cm is relatively simple but depends heavily on the "divisor" (or DIM factor) set by the specific carrier.
Result: Since 5 kg (Actual) is greater than 1.8 kg (Volumetric), the Chargeable Weight is 5 kg.
How to Use This Calculator
Our tool is designed to quickly help you calculate volumetric weight from cubic cm without manual math. Follow these steps:
Measure Dimensions: Measure the Length, Width, and Height of your package in centimeters. Always round up to the nearest whole centimeter as carriers do.
Input Values: Enter these numbers into the respective fields in the calculator.
Enter Actual Weight: If you know the physical weight, enter it in kg to see the comparison.
Select Divisor: Choose the divisor used by your shipping provider (5000 is standard for DHL/FedEx/UPS Express; 6000 is common for economy freight).
Analyze Results: The calculator will highlight the "Chargeable Weight" in green. This is the billable weight you should anticipate.
Key Factors That Affect Volumetric Weight Results
When you calculate volumetric weight from cubic cm, several external factors influence the final cost.
Carrier Divisor (DIM Factor): This is the most critical variable. A divisor of 5000 yields a higher chargeable weight than a divisor of 6000. Express services generally penalize volume more than economy services.
Packaging Efficiency: Excessive packaging materials (peanuts, bubble wrap) increase dimensions without adding significant actual weight, drastically increasing costs.
Palletization: If you ship on pallets, the volume calculation often includes the empty space between boxes and the pallet structure itself.
Measurement Rounding: Carriers often measure the widest point of a bulging box. If a box bulges by 1 cm, it can increase the calculated volume significantly over hundreds of shipments.
Minimum Billable Weight: Some carriers have a minimum billable weight regardless of the calculation.
Inter-modal Transport: If your shipment moves from air to truck, the divisor may change leg-to-leg. Usually, the most expensive calculation applies to the whole route.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why do carriers use volumetric weight?
Carriers have limited space in aircraft and trucks. A plane full of feathers would weigh very little but fill the entire hold, making the flight unprofitable if charged only by weight. Volumetric weight ensures carriers are paid for space utilization.
What is the standard divisor for international shipping?
The industry standard for international air express (DHL, FedEx, UPS) is typically 5000. This means 1 CBM (cubic meter) = 200 kg. For air freight or economy services, it is often 6000 (1 CBM = 166.67 kg).
How do I calculate volumetric weight from cubic cm if I have inches?
First, convert your measurements. Multiply inches by 2.54 to get centimeters. Then use the formula (L x W x H) / Divisor.
Does this apply to sea freight?
Sea freight usually uses a different ratio. Less than Container Load (LCL) is often charged per CBM (cubic meter) directly, rather than converting to a kg weight equivalent, though the ratio is typically 1 CBM = 1000 kg for density checks.
How can I reduce my volumetric weight?
Use the smallest possible box for your item. Avoid over-packing with void fill. If possible, disassemble products to make them flatter. Compress soft goods (like clothing) using vacuum bags.
What is "Chargeable Weight"?
Chargeable weight is simply the higher number between the Actual Weight and the Volumetric Weight. This is the weight that appears on your invoice.
Is the divisor always 5000 or 6000?
No. Domestic ground services sometimes use other divisors like 4000 or even calculating based on cubic feet. Always check your specific carrier's contract.
Can I negotiate the divisor?
Large volume shippers can sometimes negotiate a more favorable divisor (e.g., changing from 5000 to 6000) with their courier to reduce shipping costs.
Related Tools and Resources
CBM Calculator– Calculate Cubic Meters for sea freight planning.