Volumetric Weight

Volumetric weight (also called dimensional weight or "dim weight") is a pricing method couriers use to charge for the space a parcel takes up in an aircraft or truck, not just how heavy it is. It exists because a large, light box takes up cargo space that could otherwise carry several heavier parcels — so pricing by actual weight alone would undercharge bulky-but-light shipments.

The formula

Volumetric weight (kg) = (Length cm × Width cm × Height cm) ÷ Volumetric divisor

The most common divisor used by major international express networks (DHL, FedEx, UPS) is 5000. Some carriers and some freight modes use 4000 or 6000 instead, so always confirm the divisor your specific courier and service use before estimating.

Worked example

A box measuring 50 cm × 40 cm × 30 cm:

(50 × 40 × 30) ÷ 5000 = 12 kg volumetric weight

If the same box's actual weight on a scale is only 6 kg, the courier will charge you for 12 kg, not 6 kg — because volumetric weight is higher.

Chargeable weight: whichever is higher

Couriers always bill on the greater of actual weight and volumetric weight. This single rule is the reason two parcels of identical actual weight can have very different shipping costs — the more tightly and efficiently something is packed, the closer its volumetric weight stays to its actual weight, and the cheaper it ships.

How to reduce volumetric weight

• Use the smallest box that safely fits the item — avoid oversized boxes with excess empty space
• Use compressible packing material instead of rigid filler where the product allows it
• For soft goods (clothing, textiles), vacuum-compression bags can meaningfully reduce the shipped dimensions

Always calculate both actual and volumetric weight before comparing courier quotes on the Rate Calculator — quotes are only accurate once both numbers are known.