Today, international shippers should understand the volumetric weight and its calculation to avoid unexpected costs. This guide covers the essentials, from mastering the formula to practical tips for optimizing packaging.
What is volumetric weight and why does it matter?
Volumetric weight, also called dimensional weight (DIM weight), is calculated using a package’s length, width, and height, converted into volumetric kilograms. The volumetric calculation formula depends on the carrier and shipping service used.
Imagine this: shipping a plane filled with feather pillows costs more than one loaded with smartphones. Why? The pillows take up significantly more space while contributing less weight and value per shipment.
Hence, carriers use volumetric weight as a pricing strategy to account for such scenarios. It ensures that bulky, lightweight items, like the pillows, don’t unfairly undercut shipping profitability.
How to calculate the volumetric weight for each method?
Calculating dimensional weight is straightforward once you know the process. Follow these steps:
1. Measure the package
Measure the length, width, and height of the outer packaging. Ensure all measurements are in the same unit (e.g., centimeters or inches).
2. Find the cubic volume
Multiply the length, width, and height to get the cubic size of the package.
3. Apply the DIM factor
Divide the cubic volume by the carrier’s dimensional weight divisor (DIM factor). This divisor converts the cubic size into dimensional weight and varies based on the carrier, shipment method, and destination.
Calculate volumetric weight for air freight
The DIM factor for air freight typically uses the conversion: 6000 cm³ = 1 kg or one cubic meter (CBM) = 167 kg. Here’s how you can calculate it based on your measurement units.
The formula:
- Using centimeters:
Vol. Wt (kg)=Length (cm) × Width (cm) × Height (cm)/6000
- Using meters:
Vol. Wt (kg)= Length (m) × Width (m) × Height (m) × 167
- Using inches:
Vol. Wt (kg)=Length (in) × Width (in) × Height (in)/366
Example 1: Calculating with centimeters
Let’s say that your package measures 500 cm x 450 cm x 350 cm.
- Cubic volume: 500×450×350= 78,750,000 cm³
- Volumetric weight: 78,750,000/6000= 13,125kg
Example 2: Calculating with cubic meters (CBM)
Convert the dimensions into cubic meters first:
- 78,750,000cm³=78.75 m³ (CBM)
Then apply the formula:
- 75×167=13,162.25kg (round up to 13,163 kg)
Example 3: Calculating with Inches
For a package measuring 50 in × 45 in × 35 in, calculate as follows:
- Cubic volume:50×45×35=78,750 in³
- DIM weight:78,750/366 =215.2 kg (round up to 216 kg)
For sea freight calculation
The typical divisor for calculating sea volumetric weight is 1000 cubic centimeters per kilogram.
Example:
Suppose your package measures 350 cm × 450 cm × 300 cm.
Step 1: Calculate the cubic volume
350×450×300=47,250,000 cm³
Step 2: Convert to dimensional weight
47,250,000/1000=47,250 kg
For Express (DHL, UPS, FedEx) calculation
Different courier companies use varying metrics to calculate dimensional weight for international shipments. However, the most common formulas are:
- Inches/pounds:
Vol. Wt (lbs)= Length (in) × Width (in) × Height (in)/139
- Centimeters/Kilograms:
Vol. Wt (kg)= Length (cm) × Width (cm) × Height (cm)/5000
Example:
Suppose your package measures 70 cm × 80 cm × 75 cm:
- Cubic volume:70×80×75=420,000 cm³
- Vol.Wt (kg): 420,000/5000=84 kg
If measured in inches (approximately 27.56 in × 31.5 in × 29.53 in):
- Cubic volume (in³):56×31.5×29.53≈25,650in³
- Vol.Wt (lbs): 25,650/139≈184.5 lbs (round up to 185 lbs)
For rail freight DIM weight
The DIM weight formula for rail shipping differs slightly from other transportation methods. The calculation is as follows:
- Dimensional weight (kg)= Length (cm) × Width (cm) × Height (cm)/3000
How to determine the accurate shipping cost of your cargo?
When calculating shipping costs, carriers base their charges on the greater of two factors: actual or volumetric weight. This method ensures fair pricing by considering the physical weight of the cargo and the space it occupies during transport.
How to optimize packaging for volumetric weight?
Little adjustments (like redesigning product packaging or minimizing excess materials) can significantly lower shipping costs. Here’s how to optimize:
Use the appreciated size box
For irregularly shaped parcels, volumetric weight is calculated based on the dimensions of the smallest rectangular box that can contain them. Ensure the box size closely matches the item’s dimensions. Oversized boxes increase volumetric weight unnecessarily.
Optimize pallet usage
Pallet size also contributes to volumetric weight calculations. If your shipment allows, opt for a Euro pallet (1200 x 800 mm) instead of a standard UK pallet (1200 x 1000 mm). This smaller pallet size can help cut costs while still ensuring the safe transport of your goods.
How can ASLG help with DIM weight calculations?
At ASLG, we specialize in accurate dimensional weight calculations and optimizing packaging to reduce shipping costs. Below is how we can assist:
Expert notifications:
If the chargeable weight is based on volumetric weight, our experts notify you promptly. We also provide tailored solutions to balance cost-efficiency and packaging requirements.
Customized recommendations:
We analyze your shipping needs and suggest packaging adjustments or alternative shipping methods to optimize DIM weight charges and streamline logistics.
With ASLG, you gain a proactive partner dedicated to improving your shipping efficiency and reducing unnecessary expenses.
