Volumetric Weight (Dimensional Weight)
Volumetric weight, also called dimensional weight, converts the volume of your cargo into a notional weight that carriers can compare against its actual mass.
Definition
Volumetric weight exists because a large light shipment occupies more space in an aircraft or container than its weight alone suggests. Carriers charge for the space.
It is calculated by dividing the cubic volume of the shipment by a divisor. The divisor varies by mode and by carrier contract, which is why the same carton can produce different billable weights on different lanes.
Formula
Volumetric weight (kg) = Length × Width × Height (cm) ÷ divisor
Example
A carton of 100 × 80 × 60 cm has a volume of 480,000 cm³. Divided by 6000 that gives a volumetric weight of 80 kg.
When you will come across it
- Booking air freight or an express courier, where the 6000 divisor is standard
- Comparing quotes from carriers that apply different divisors
- Working out why a quote came back higher than expected for light goods
Frequently asked questions
What is the standard volumetric divisor?
Air and courier shipments normally use 6000, sea freight often uses 5000 and road freight 4000. Always confirm with your carrier because it varies by lane and contract.
Is volumetric weight the same as dimensional weight?
Yes. The two terms are used interchangeably, with dimensional weight being more common in US domestic shipping and volumetric weight in international freight.
Does sea freight use volumetric weight?
It uses an equivalent principle. Ocean LCL applies a weight-or-measure basis where 1 CBM is treated as 1,000 kg, which is the same idea expressed differently.