Determine exactly on which figure the weight of a product is calculated for shipping and logistics costs. This tool compares gross weight against volumetric weight to identify the billable figure.
Metric (cm / kg)
Imperial (inches / lb)
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The reading from a physical scale.
The factor determines how volume is converted to weight. Standard Courier is often 5000 (Metric) or 139 (Imperial).
Final Chargeable Weight (Billable Figure)
0 kg
Actual Gross Weight:0
Volumetric (DIM) Weight:0
Calculation Basis:–
Billable Difference:0
Figure 1: Comparison of Actual Weight vs. Volumetric Weight
What is the figure on which the weight of a product is calculated?
In logistics and shipping, the phrase "on which figure the weight of a product is calculated" refers to the Chargeable Weight. This is a critical concept in freight transport because carriers do not simply charge based on how heavy an item is; they also consider how much space it occupies in the vehicle, aircraft, or container.
To determine shipping costs, carriers calculate two distinct figures:
Actual Weight (Gross Weight): The physical weight of the product including packaging, measured on a scale.
Volumetric Weight (Dimensional Weight): A calculated weight based on the package's length, width, and height.
The "figure" used for billing is always the higher of the two. This ensures that a large box filled with feathers (low weight, high volume) pays for the space it takes up, while a small box of lead (high weight, low volume) pays for its load burden.
Chargeable Weight Formula and Mathematical Explanation
The mathematical process to find on which figure the weight of a product is calculated involves a standard formula used globally by IATA, courier services, and freight forwarders.
Step 1: Calculate Volume
First, obtain the cubic volume of the package.
Volume = Length × Width × Height
Step 2: Calculate Volumetric Weight
Divide the volume by a specific divisor (DIM Factor). This factor varies by carrier and mode of transport.
Table 1: Key variables in determining the weight figure for shipping.
Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)
Example 1: The "Light but Bulky" Shipment
Imagine shipping a large box of pillows via air courier.
Dimensions: 50cm x 50cm x 50cm
Actual Weight: 5 kg
DIM Divisor: 5000 (Standard Courier)
Calculation:
Volume = 125,000 cm³
Volumetric Weight = 125,000 / 5000 = 25 kg
Result: Since 25 kg > 5 kg, the figure on which the weight of the product is calculated is 25 kg. You are paying for "air" because the package takes up significant space.
Example 2: The "Dense and Heavy" Shipment
Now consider shipping a small box of barbell plates.
Dimensions: 20cm x 20cm x 10cm
Actual Weight: 15 kg
DIM Divisor: 5000
Calculation:
Volume = 4,000 cm³
Volumetric Weight = 4,000 / 5000 = 0.8 kg
Result: Since 15 kg > 0.8 kg, the chargeable figure is 15 kg. In this case, the physical density drives the cost.
How to Use This Chargeable Weight Calculator
To determine on which figure the weight of a product is calculated for your specific shipment, follow these steps:
Select System: Choose Metric (cm/kg) or Imperial (in/lb) depending on your measurements.
Input Dimensions: Measure the longest side (Length), the second longest (Width), and the height of the package. Round up to the nearest whole unit if required by your carrier.
Input Gross Weight: Weigh the fully packed box on a scale.
Select Factor: Choose the DIM Divisor. For most express couriers (DHL, FedEx, UPS), use 5000. For traditional air freight, 6000 is common.
Analyze Results: The calculator will highlight the "Final Chargeable Weight" in blue. This is the weight you will be billed for.
Key Factors That Affect Chargeable Weight Results
Several financial and logistical factors influence on which figure the weight of a product is calculated:
The DIM Divisor (Factor): A higher divisor (e.g., 6000 vs 5000) lowers the volumetric weight, which is favorable for the shipper. Carriers adjust this factor based on market capacity and fuel costs.
Packaging Efficiency: Excessive packaging materials (bubble wrap, large void fills) increase dimensions without adding actual weight, often pushing the shipment into volumetric billing.
Palletization: If you stack boxes on a pallet, the dimensions of the entire pallet (including the empty space between boxes) are often used to calculate the volumetric figure.
Carrier Mode: Sea freight often uses a ratio of 1 cbm = 1000 kg, while air freight is much stricter (1 cbm = 167 kg approx). The mode of transport drastically changes the billable figure.
Rounding Rules: Most carriers round up dimensions to the nearest cm or inch, and weights to the nearest 0.5 kg or lb. This slight increase can tip the scale from actual to volumetric.
Stackability: Non-stackable pallets may be charged based on the full height of the container or aircraft position, effectively making the "Height" variable the maximum possible height, skyrocketing the volumetric weight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why is my shipping cost higher than the actual weight?
This happens when the volumetric weight exceeds the actual weight. The carrier charges you for the space occupied rather than the physical mass.
2. What is the standard divisor for international air freight?
Traditionally, it is 6000 (cm³/kg), but many express couriers now use 5000 to increase revenue on lightweight parcels.
3. Can I reduce the figure on which the weight is calculated?
Yes, by optimizing packaging. Use the smallest possible box that fits the item safely. Reducing the box height by just a few centimeters can significantly lower the chargeable weight.
4. Does this apply to sea freight?
Yes, but the ratio is different. Sea freight usually operates on a "Weight or Measure" (W/M) basis, typically 1 cubic meter = 1000 kg.
5. How do I calculate the weight figure for irregular shapes?
Treat the irregular object as if it were in a rectangular box that encloses its extreme points (Length x Width x Height of the bounding box).
6. What is the difference between Net Weight and Gross Weight?
Net weight is the product alone; Gross weight includes packaging. Chargeable weight is calculated based on Gross Weight vs. Volumetric Weight.
7. Is the divisor always 5000?
No. Ground freight might use 3000, while some economy air services use 4000. Always check your carrier's rate sheet.
8. How accurate is this calculator?
It is mathematically accurate based on the inputs provided. However, carriers may re-measure packages using laser scanners, so ensure your inputs are precise.
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