What is Volumetric Weight?
Volumetric Weight, also known as Dimensional weight, DIM weight, or cubed weight, is a method employed by shipping companies and cargo airlines to determine the weight of a package based on its volume, rather than its actual physical weight. This concept acknowledges that large, lightweight packages occupy more space in a transportation vehicle, impacting logistics efficiency and costs.
Actual Weight: The real weight of the package on a weighing scale, including the product, packaging, and any materials used.
Volumetric Weight: Calculated based on the package's dimensions (length, width, and height). This is because larger, bulkier packages can take up more space on carriers’ vehicles or airplanes, even if they don't weigh much.
Chargeable Weight: Carriers use whichever is greater of these two weights (actual or volumetric) to determine the shipping rate. And since shipping rates are charged per 0.5 kg, the Chargeable Weight of a package is rounded up to the nearest 0.5 kg.
Volumetric Weight Calculation Method
Shipping rates are determined by the dimensions and weight of the package. It is strongly advised to measure your packages properly to get accurate rates when creating shipping labels.
The calculation of Volumetric Weight involves a straightforward formula: Volume in cm³ divided by 5000
Length, Width, and Height: These dimensions are measured in centimeters by the outermost points (including the bulging sides).
5000: The number 5,000 is used as a standard divisor in the international CEP (Courier, Express, Parcel) industry because it represents a specific volume-to-weight density ratio of 1:5.
Real Practical Example
If a package has dimensions of 30 cm x 20 cm x 10 cm, its Volumetric Weight would be 1.2 kg, calculated as follows:
This means that, if the Actual Weight is lower than 1.2 kg, then the Volumetric Weigh is used to determined the shipping rates.
And as the carriers' pricing is rounded up per 0.5 kg, the Chargeable Weight of this shipment is 1.5 kg, meaning it will be the same price if you fill this box with the Actual Weight up to 1.5 kg.
How to Reduce Volumetric Weight and Save on Shipping Costs
Here are a few simple ways to reduce volumetric weight:
Use the Smallest Suitable Box
Choose a box that closely fits your products. Oversized boxes increase the package volume, even if they contain lightweight items.Remove Excess Empty Space
Avoid shipping with unnecessary air inside the box. Fill empty spaces with compact cushioning materials and trim down oversized packaging whenever possible.Choose Slimmer Packaging
If your product doesn't require a rigid box, consider using padded mailers or poly mailers instead. They usually take up less space and can reduce volumetric weight.Pack Products Efficiently
Arrange items neatly to minimize the package dimensions. For example, stack flat items instead of placing them side by side, or disassemble products when practical.Avoid Bulging Packages
Overfilled or bulging boxes increase the measured dimensions and may result in higher shipping charges. Always use a properly sized box that can be sealed without expanding its shape.
Before You Ship
Double-check your package dimensions before creating your shipping label. Even reducing the length, width, or height by a few centimeters can make a noticeable difference in shipping costs.