What is volumetric weight?
Volumetric weight, also called dimensional or "dim" weight, is a weight worked out from the size of a parcel instead of what it weighs on a scale. Space in an aircraft or van is limited, so a large, light box costs a courier as much to move as a small, heavy one. To be fair to both, couriers work out the volumetric weight and charge you on whichever is higher: the actual weight or the volumetric weight. That higher figure is the chargeable weight.
How to calculate volumetric weight
Multiply the length, width and height of the box in centimetres, then divide by the carrier's volumetric divisor:
If you measure in inches, the common international express equivalent is:
Worked example
A box measures 50 × 40 × 30 cm and weighs 8 kg on the scale.
- Volume: 50 × 40 × 30 = 60,000 cm³
- Volumetric weight: 60,000 ÷ 5000 = 12 kg
- Actual weight: 8 kg
- Chargeable weight: the higher of the two = 12 kg
So even though the box only weighs 8 kg, it will be billed as 12 kg.
Which divisor should I use?
| Divisor | Typically used for | 1 kg of volumetric weight equals |
|---|---|---|
| 5000 | International express couriers such as DHL Express, FedEx International and UPS Worldwide | 5,000 cm³ |
| 6000 | Air freight / air cargo (IATA standard) | 6,000 cm³ |
| 4000 – 4500 | Some domestic and economy services | 4,000 – 4,500 cm³ |
A smaller divisor gives a higher volumetric weight. If you are not sure which applies to your shipment, use 5000 for international courier exports from India, or ask us.
How to lower your volumetric weight
- Use the smallest box that fits. Every extra centimetre on each side adds up quickly.
- Cut down oversized cartons instead of filling empty space with packing material.
- Use poly mailers or satchels for soft goods such as clothing and textiles.
- Combine small items into one well-packed box rather than sending several half-empty ones.
- Measure honestly. Couriers re-measure parcels at their hubs, and under-declared sizes are re-billed later, often with a surcharge.
Frequently asked questions
Will I always be charged on volumetric weight?
No. You are charged on whichever is higher, the actual weight or the volumetric weight. Small, dense parcels such as metal parts or books are usually charged on actual weight.
How do I measure an irregular-shaped parcel?
Measure it as if it were inside a rectangular box: take the longest, widest and tallest points. Couriers measure the same way, so bulging or rounded packaging counts at its widest point.
How is a shipment with several boxes calculated?
Work out the volumetric weight of each box, add them together, and compare the total with the total actual weight. Use "Add another box size" above for boxes of different sizes, or change the number of boxes for identical ones.
Why is the chargeable weight rounded up?
International express carriers bill in 0.5 kg steps, so any fraction is rounded up to the next half kilogram. For example, 12.1 kg is billed as 12.5 kg.
What is the difference between volumetric weight and CBM?
CBM (cubic metres) is the plain volume of your shipment and is mostly used for sea freight. Volumetric weight turns that volume into a weight so it can be compared with the actual weight for courier and air shipments. The calculator shows both.