How to Calculate Volumetric Weight for International Shipping
When it comes to international shipping, freight charges depend not only on actual weight but also on volumetric weight—also known as dimensional weight. This pricing method ensures fair billing by taking the space your cargo occupies into account, not just its physical mass.
For instance, shipping a box of feather pillows takes up more space than a box of smartphones, even though the latter weighs more. To balance this difference, carriers use volumetric weight calculations to determine accurate freight costs.
What Is Volumetric Weight and Why Does It Matter?
Volumetric weight is calculated based on your package’s dimensions—length, width, and height. Carriers apply a DIM factor to convert the volume into a weight figure. This practice ensures:
Fair pricing: Charges reflect the space your shipment takes, not just its actual weight.
Cost efficiency: Businesses can better manage and predict shipping costs.
Smarter packaging: It encourages optimizing packaging to avoid unnecessary fees.
How to Calculate Volumetric Weight
To find your shipment’s dimensional weight, follow these simple steps:
Measure the package in consistent units (cm, m, or inches).
Calculate volume: Length × Width × Height.
Apply the DIM factor to convert volume into weight.
Air Freight
For air shipping, the typical DIM factor is:
In cm:
Vol. Weight (kg) = L × W × H / 6000In m:
Vol. Weight (kg) = L × W × H × 167In inches:
Vol. Weight (kg) = L × W × H / 366
Example (cm):
Package: 500 cm × 450 cm × 350 cm
Volume: 78,750,000 cm³
Vol. Weight: 78,750,000 ÷ 6000 = 13,125 kg
Ocean Freight
For sea shipping, the DIM factor is usually 1000 cm³ = 1 kg.
Example:
Package: 350 cm × 450 cm × 300 cm
Volume: 47,250,000 cm³
Vol. Weight: 47,250 kg
Express Couriers (DHL, FedEx, UPS)
Couriers use their own DIM factors. Commonly:
5000 cm³ = 1 kg
139 in³ = 1 lb
Example (cm):
Package: 70 cm × 80 cm × 75 cm
Volume: 420,000 cm³
Vol. Weight: 420,000 ÷ 5000 = 84 kg
Volumetric vs. Actual Weight: Which One Applies?
Carriers compare the volumetric weight and actual weight of a package. They charge based on whichever is higher. Understanding this helps you avoid surprises in international shipping costs.
How to Reduce Volumetric Weight and Save on Shipping
To lower your shipping costs, consider these packaging tips:
Use the right-sized box: Avoid oversized cartons.
Redesign packaging: Eliminate empty fillers and reduce bulk.
Optimize pallet use: Choose compact pallets like Euro pallets to minimize wasted space.
How GB INTL FREIGHT AGENCY Can Help
At GB INTL FREIGHT AGENCY, I help clients:
Accurately calculate volumetric and actual weight
Optimize packaging to reduce freight charges
Select the most cost-effective freight solutions
Need help with your shipment? Contact us now to get a customized logistics plan.
Conclusion
Learning how to calculate volumetric weight is essential for managing your international shipping costs effectively. By choosing the right transport method and optimizing your packaging, you can save significantly on freight.
