Volumetric Weight Calculator
Turn carton dimensions into volumetric weight and compare it with the actual weight to find the chargeable weight a carrier will bill you on — per piece and across the shipment.
Why a light box can cost like a heavy one
Space on a plane or in a van is finite, so carriers refuse to let a big, light carton travel cheaply just because it doesn’t weigh much. Volumetric weight converts a carton’s size into a weight, and you are billed on whichever is larger — mass or bulk. Knowing the chargeable weight before you book stops a surprise on the freight invoice and helps you decide whether tighter packing is worth it.
Once you know how a carton is charged, see how many fit a container with the Container Load Calculator, and fold the freight into the full picture with the Landed Cost Calculator.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is volumetric (dimensional) weight?
It is a weight figure based on a package's size rather than its mass, so that a light but bulky carton is charged for the space it takes up. The formula is (length × width × height in cm) divided by a divisor. Carriers bill on the greater of the actual weight and this volumetric weight, which they call the chargeable weight.
Which divisor should I use — 5000, 6000, or something else?
It depends on the carrier and service. 5000 is the common IATA divisor for air freight in kilograms and centimetres; many international couriers use 6000, and some express services use other values. Always use the divisor stated in your carrier's terms — this tool lets you pick, because the choice changes the volumetric weight directly.
How is chargeable weight worked out?
The chargeable weight per piece is simply the larger of the actual weight and the volumetric weight. If your carton's volumetric weight is 7.2 kg but it actually weighs 5 kg, you are billed on 7.2 kg; if it weighs 10 kg, you are billed on 10 kg. Multiply by the number of pieces for the shipment total.
Will this match my carrier's invoice exactly?
Not always. Carriers round dimensions and weights their own way, apply minimum chargeable weights, and may re-measure your cartons at the depot. Treat this as a close estimate to plan and compare with, and confirm the chargeable weight on your actual quote or invoice.
Informational estimate only. Carriers use their own divisor, rounding, and minimum chargeable weights and may re-measure cartons — confirm the chargeable weight on your quote before booking.