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Volumetric weight calculator

This volumetric weight calculator takes the size of your parcel, its actual weight and the divisor and shows which weight the carrier will charge: the actual weight or the dimensional weight, whichever is higher.

Example: Measuring system: Centimetres and kilograms · Length 60 cm / in · Width 40 cm / in · Height 40 cm / in · Actual weight per parcel 8 kg / lb · Number of identical parcels 1 · Divisor 5,000 cm³/kg → Chargeable weight: Chargeable weight 19.2 kg (dimensional 19.2 kg, actual 8 kg). Source: Wikipedia – Dimensional weight (divisor 5,000 and 6,000 cm³/kg). Updated: .

cm / in
cm / in
cm / in
kg / lb
optional, to compare with the dimensional weight
cm³/kg
often 5000 for parcels and express, 6000 for air freight; see your carrier's terms
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Result

Chargeable weight
Chargeable weight 19.2 kg (dimensional 19.2 kg, actual 8 kg)
Calculation
ItemValue
Volume per parcel0.096 m³ (96,000 cm³)
Dimensional weight per parcel19.2 kg
Dimensional weight, total19.2 kg
Actual weight, total8 kg
Chargeable weight19.2 kg
Assessment
  • 60 × 40 × 40 cm ÷ 5,000 = 19.2 kg per parcel.
  • The dimensional weight is 140 % above the actual weight: you pay for air. A smaller or more tightly packed parcel saves money.
The divisor is set by the carrier and listed in its terms. Rounding (often to whole or half kilograms) and maximum sizes also differ, so check the details before you ship.

How it is calculated

A parcel of 60 × 40 × 40 cm has a dimensional weight of 19.2 kg at a divisor of 5000; if it weighs only 8 kg, the carrier charges 19.2 kg. The calculator shows which weight counts.

How it is calculated

Dimensional weight is length times width times height in centimetres divided by the divisor, with the result in kilograms. The divisor says how many cubic centimetres count as one kilogram: 5000 for parcels and express, often 6000 for air freight (167 kg per cubic metre). The carrier charges the higher of dimensional and actual weight, for several parcels on the total.

Why it exists

A box full of packing peanuts is light but takes as much cargo space as a heavy one. Dimensional weight makes space comparable with weight. Packing smaller, filling less air and trimming dimensions often lowers the chargeable weight more than saving grams ever could.

In inches and pounds

In the US the sizes are in inches and pounds; the divisor is then cubic inches per pound, about 139 for domestic shipments.

More tools: the volume calculator, the pallet calculator and selling fees.

Frequently asked questions

How do you calculate volumetric weight?

Length times width times height in cm, divided by 5000, gives the volumetric weight in kg. 60 × 40 × 40 cm is 96,000 cm³, so 19.2 kg.

Which divisor applies to parcels?

Usually 5000 cm³ per kg, often 6000 in air freight. Your carrier's terms are binding, and the calculator lets you set the value freely.

What is chargeable weight?

The higher of the actual weight and the dimensional weight. The price of the shipment is based on it.

How can I reduce volumetric weight?

Use smaller boxes, pack more tightly and use less filler. Even 5 cm less height can cut the dimensional weight noticeably.

Does it apply to several parcels?

Yes, most carriers work out each parcel and charge the sum. The calculator therefore multiplies by the number of parcels.

Sources and legal basis

As of: · Editorial policy

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