The divisor used by your carrier to convert volume to weight.
Chargeable Weight (Total)
0 lbs
Based on the higher of Actual vs. Volumetric weight.
Total Volume
0 in³
Volumetric Weight
0 lbs
Actual Total Weight
0 lbs
Figure 1: Comparison of Actual Weight vs. Calculated Volumetric Weight. The carrier will bill for the taller bar.
Detailed breakdown of weight calculations per package and totals.
Metric
Per Package
Total Shipment
What is an LxWxH Weight Calculator?
An LxWxH weight calculator is a critical logistics tool used to determine the "volumetric" or "dimensional" weight of a shipment. In the shipping industry, carriers like FedEx, UPS, and DHL do not charge solely based on the physical weight of a box. Instead, they calculate cost based on the amount of space a package occupies in a truck or aircraft.
This calculator helps shippers compare the Actual Weight (what the scale reads) against the Volumetric Weight (derived from Length x Width x Height). The carrier will always bill you for whichever number is higher, known as the Chargeable Weight.
Whether you are an e-commerce business owner or sending a personal package, using an LxWxH weight calculator ensures you aren't surprised by unexpected shipping fees due to bulky, lightweight items.
LxWxH Weight Calculator Formula and Mathematical Explanation
The core logic behind the lxwxh weight calculator revolves around converting cubic volume into a theoretical weight. This is done using a specific divisor, often called the DIM Factor.
Result: Even though the box only weighs 5 lbs, the carrier charges you for 58 lbs (rounded up) because it takes up significant space. This is where an lxwxh weight calculator saves you from pricing errors.
Example 2: The "Dumbbell" Scenario (Low Volume, High Weight)
Result: The volumetric weight is only ~2 lbs, but the actual weight is 25 lbs. The carrier charges for the 25 lbs actual weight.
How to Use This LxWxH Weight Calculator
Follow these simple steps to get accurate shipping weight estimates:
Select Unit System: Choose Imperial (in/lbs) for US shipments or Metric (cm/kg) for international.
Measure Dimensions: Measure the length, width, and height of your package. Always round up to the nearest whole inch or centimeter, as carriers typically do this.
Enter Actual Weight: Weigh the package on a scale and input the value.
Select DIM Factor: Choose the standard divisor (e.g., 139 for FedEx/UPS). If you have a special contract, select "Custom" and enter your negotiated rate.
Analyze Results: The calculator will highlight the "Chargeable Weight." Use this number to request shipping quotes.
Key Factors That Affect LxWxH Weight Results
Understanding these factors can help you reduce shipping overhead.
Carrier Divisors: Different carriers use different divisors (139 vs 166). A higher divisor results in a lower billable weight. Negotiating a higher divisor (e.g., moving from 139 to 166) is a common contract negotiation tactic for high-volume shippers.
Packaging Efficiency: Using a box that is too large for the item fills the truck with "air," increasing the lxwxh calculation. Optimizing packaging to fit the product tightly reduces volumetric weight significantly.
Pallet Overhang: If items hang over the edge of a pallet, carriers calculate dimensions based on the widest point, drastically increasing the L x W dimensions.
Rounding Rules: Most carriers round dimensions up to the nearest inch before calculating. A 10.1″ box becomes 11″, which affects the final volume calculation.
Stackability: While not a direct input in the lxwxh formula, non-stackable pallets are often charged as if they occupy the full vertical height of the truck, essentially maxing out the "H" variable.
Minimum Billable Weights: Some freight services have a minimum billable weight (e.g., 150 lbs) regardless of the actual or volumetric calculation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is my shipping cost higher than the actual weight implies?
This is likely due to volumetric weight. If your package is light but large, the carrier charges for the space it occupies rather than its physical mass.
What is the standard DIM factor for UPS and FedEx?
As of 2024, the standard DIM factor for commercial ground and express shipments is usually 139. Retail rates often use 166.
Does the lxwxh weight calculator apply to pallets?
Yes. For pallets, measure the total length, width, and height of the stacked pallet. International air freight often uses a divisor of 166 (imperial) or 6000 (metric).
How do I reduce my volumetric weight?
Use smaller boxes, minimize void fill (packing peanuts/air pillows), or disassemble products to make them flatter. Reducing the box size by just 1 inch on all sides can significantly lower costs.
Can I negotiate the DIM factor?
Yes. High-volume shippers often negotiate a more favorable DIM factor (e.g., 166 or 200) with carriers to reduce shipping costs.
Is 1 kg equal to a specific volume?
In air freight, the standard conversion is often 1 cbm = 167 kg. This is derived from the metric divisor of 6000.
What units should I use for international shipping?
Most of the world uses Metric (cm/kg). However, shipments originating from the US often start in Imperial (in/lbs).
Does this calculator handle irregular shapes?
For irregular shapes (like a cylinder or non-square box), carriers measure the extreme points to create a theoretical rectangular box that encloses the item. Input the maximum L, W, and H.