Volumetric weight calculator
Compare actual and volumetric weight using the applicable carrier divisor.
Package dimensions
Divisors vary by carrier and service. Confirm the applicable divisor before relying on a quotation.
Chargeable weight
- Measurements are in centimetres.
This tool calculates the pricing basis, not a final shipping price. The written quotation depends on the goods, route, transport availability, additional services and destination charges.
Request your written quotation
Send the calculated volume or weight together with your cargo and destination details. Confirm the carrier divisor, route availability and estimated timing before booking.
Volumetric weight helps explain how the space occupied by a package can affect shipping charges. Enter the external packed dimensions, the number of identical packages and the total actual weight, then select the divisor confirmed by the carrier for your service.
Understanding the three weights
- Actual weight: the scale weight of the prepared shipment.
- Volumetric weight: a weight equivalent calculated from dimensions using the service divisor.
- Chargeable weight: the billing weight under the carrier’s rules. This tool compares actual and volumetric weight and uses the higher figure for its estimate.
Calculating with centimetres
Volumetric weight in kilograms = length × width × height ÷ divisor. For identical packages, multiply by the quantity. A service may use a divisor such as 5000 or 6000. Choose the divisor confirmed for your quotation, since changing it changes the result.
For example, a 60 × 40 × 50 cm package produces 24 kg using 5000, or 20 kg using 6000. If its actual weight is 18 kg, the estimated chargeable weight is 24 or 20 kg depending on the divisor. If its actual weight is 28 kg, the higher figure in either comparison is 28 kg.
Examples using a divisor of 5000
| Dimensions in centimetres | Volumetric weight |
|---|---|
| 40 × 40 × 40 | 12.8 kg |
| 60 × 40 × 50 | 24 kg |
| 80 × 50 × 50 | 40 kg |
| 100 × 60 × 60 | 72 kg |
Accurate measurements and suitable packing
Measure the outermost points after sealing the package, including protrusions. Choose a carton that accommodates the contents and protection without unnecessary empty space. If package dimensions differ, calculate each size separately, then confirm aggregation, rounding and minimum billing rules with the carrier.
Frequently asked questions
Is the divisor the same for every shipment?
It varies by carrier and service. Confirm the applicable divisor and rounding rules in the quotation before relying on the result.
Should I enter one package’s weight or the total?
The actual weight field is for the total. Dimensions describe one package, and the quantity applies to identical packages only.
Is the result a shipping price?
The result estimates chargeable weight. A price also requires the destination, goods, service scope and review of the available tariff.
When should I use cubic metres?
Use the CBM calculator to measure volume and compare sea or road freight requirements, then confirm the shipment’s pricing unit.