Volumetric weight

Volumetric weight, also known as dimensional weight, is a measure carriers use to determine how much space your package occupies in the transport vehicle. When this value is greater than the package’s actual weight, the carrier bills based on volumetric weight.

In short: if your package is large but light, the shipping cost is calculated by the space it occupies, not by what it weighs.

Formula to calculate volumetric weight

Length × Width × Height

the carrier’s dimensional weight factor

Example

For example, if you have a box that is 50 cm long, 40 cm wide, and 30 cm high, and the weight factor is 5000, the volumetric weight calculation would be:

(50 cm * 40 cm * 30 cm) / 5000 = 12 kg.

In this case, even if the box’s actual weight is 10 kg, the carrier will bill as if it weighed 12 kg because of the space it occupies in the vehicle. That is why volumetric weight is a key factor when you calculate shipping costs.

LTL shipments (Pallet)

For less-than-truckload (LTL) shipments, volumetric weight is not measured in kilograms but in cubic meters (m³). Freight carriers use this value together with actual weight to determine the freight cost.

How it appears in the platform

When you enter your package dimensions in the generation flow, the platform calculates and displays volumetric weight automatically. You will see the value update in real time as you adjust the measurements.

The carrier always bills the higher of actual weight and volumetric weight.

Tips to avoid unexpected charges

Measure accurately before you enter dimensions. A small error can change the billed weight.
Photograph and document your package measurements and weight before you ship. This is essential if you need to dispute a weight-difference charge.
Optimize packaging: if you can reduce package dimensions without compromising protection of the contents, shipping cost may go down.
For LTL shipments, consider volume in m³ when you plan logistics and compare options.