What Is Volumetric Weight? Formula & Calculation Guide

Volumetric weight (also known as dimensional weight) is a pricing technique used by shipping carriers to account for the amount of space a package occupies in relation to its actual weight.

The following guide details the formulas, calculation steps, and examples to help you determine the volumetric weight of a shipment.

What Is Volumetric Weight?

Volumetric weight reflects the density of a package. Carriers compare two weights to determine the shipping cost:

1. Actual Weight: The physical weight of the package on a scale.
2. Volumetric Weight: The theoretical weight calculated from the package’s size.

The carrier will charge based on whichever of these two numbers is higher. This is known as the Chargeable Weight. This system ensures carriers are paid fairly for lightweight, bulky items (like pillows or styrofoam) that take up valuable cargo space.

Formulas for Volumetric Weight

The general formula involves multiplying the package’s dimensions and dividing by a specific “divisor” (also called a dimensional factor). The divisor varies by carrier (e.g., DHL, FedEx, UPS) and mode of transport (Air, Sea, Road).

1. Metric System (Centimeters / Kilograms)

This is the most common standard for international shipments.$$\text{Volumetric Weight (kg)}=\frac{\text{Length (cm)}\times \text{Width (cm)}\times \text{Height (cm)}}{\text{Divisor}}$$Volumetric Weight (kg)=DivisorLength (cm)×Width (cm)×Height (cm)

• Standard Divisor: 5000 (Most common for couriers like DHL/FedEx Express)
• Alternate Divisor: 6000 or 4000 (Used by some ground freight or economy services)

2. Imperial System (Inches / Pounds)

Commonly used for domestic shipments in the USA.$$\text{Volumetric Weight (lb)}=\frac{\text{Length (in)}\times \text{Width (in)}\times \text{Height (in)}}{\text{Divisor}}$$Volumetric Weight (lb)=DivisorLength (in)×Width (in)×Height (in)

• Standard Divisor: 139 (Common for UPS/FedEx daily rates)
• Alternate Divisor: 166 (Used for some domestic ground or retail rates)

3. Sea Freight (CBM)

For ocean freight, the calculation is often much simpler.$$1\text{ Cubic Meter (CBM)}=1,000\text{ kg}$$1 Cubic Meter (CBM)=1,000 kg

How to Calculate Volumetric Weight (Step-by-Step)

Example Scenario:
You are shipping a box of pillows.

• Dimensions: 50 cm x 40 cm x 25 cm
• Actual Weight: 5 kg
• Carrier Divisor: 5000

Step 1: Measure the Package

Measure the Length, Width, and Height at their longest points. If the package has a bulge or irregular shape, measure to the widest point.

• L: 50 cm
• W: 40 cm
• H: 25 cm

Step 2: Calculate the Volume

Multiply the dimensions together.$$50\times 40\times 25=50,000\text{ cubic centimeters}$$50×40×25=50,000 cubic centimeters

Step 3: Divide by the Divisor

Apply the formula using the carrier’s divisor (usually 5000).$$\frac{50,000}{5000}=\mathbf{10}\text{ kg}$$500050,000=10 kg

Step 4: Determine Chargeable Weight

Compare the Volumetric Weight (10 kg) with the Actual Weight (5 kg).

• Volumetric Weight: 10 kg
• Actual Weight: 5 kg

Result: The carrier will charge you for 10 kg because it is the higher value.

Quick Reference Table: Common Divisors

Note: Always verify the specific divisor with your carrier, as it can change based on your contract or service level.