Volumetric weight = length × width × height (cm) ÷ 5000. Couriers bill the higher of this and the actual weight, rounded up to their weight slab. That's the chargeable weight.
What is volumetric weight?
Volumetric weight (also called dimensional or “dim” weight) prices a parcel by the space it takes in a vehicle or aircraft, not just by what it weighs. A large, light box of pillows takes the space of a much heavier parcel, so the carrier charges for that space.
The formula
Volumetric weight (kg) = L × W × H (cm) ÷ divisor
| Divisor | Where you'll see it |
|---|---|
| 5000 | Common for domestic and international express courier |
| 6000 | IATA standard for air cargo |
| CFT rate | Surface and part-truckload transport, priced in kg per cubic foot |
Your carrier's rate agreement is the final word. If it says a different divisor, use the custom option.
Worked example
- Box: 40 × 30 × 20 cm, actual weight 3 kg.
- Volume: 40 × 30 × 20 = 24,000 cm³.
- Volumetric weight: 24,000 ÷ 5000 = 4.8 kg.
- Chargeable weight: the higher of 3 kg and 4.8 kg = 4.8 kg.
- Rounded to a 0.5 kg slab: 5 kg.
How to pay less for volumetric weight
- Use the smallest box that protects the product; every centimetre counts three times.
- Measure at the widest points, including bulges, the way the carrier will.
- Compare divisors across carriers for bulky, light goods.
- Record your own dimensions at booking so you can dispute a wrong re-weigh.
When a carrier's billed weight doesn't match yours, that's a weight discrepancy. Read how to catch courier weight discrepancies, or see how Hyper Route flags carrier overbilling automatically.