Volumetric Weight Calculator
Air and express carriers don't bill on actual weight alone — they bill on chargeable weight, the greater of your shipment's actual weight and its volumetric weight. Enter the dimensions and weight to see which one applies before you book.
You will be billed on volumetric weight — the shipment is bulky for its weight.
How volumetric weight works
Volumetric weight equals length × width × height in centimeters divided by a divisor — 6000 for standard air freight, 5000 for express couriers. The carrier compares this against the actual weight and charges whichever is higher. A light but bulky shipment gets billed on volume; a dense one on actual weight. Switching the divisor below shows how the same box is priced differently across services.
What is volumetric weight and why am I charged for it?
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Volumetric (dimensional) weight reflects how much space a shipment takes up rather than how heavy it is. Carriers use it because a large, light box uses cargo space that could carry heavier freight. You are billed on whichever is greater — actual or volumetric weight.
Which divisor should I use, 6000 or 5000?
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Standard air freight uses 6000, meaning 6000 cubic centimeters equal 1 kg of volumetric weight. Most express couriers (DHL, FedEx, UPS) use 5000, which produces a higher chargeable weight for the same box. Always confirm the divisor in your carrier's rate sheet.