Volumetric Weight Calculator
Volumetric Weight Calculator
Calculate volumetric weight and chargeable shipping weight based on package dimensions. Understand how couriers calculate shipping charges using dimensional weight to optimize your packaging and shipping costs.
Calculate volumetric weight
Volumetric Weight Calculator
Enter your package dimensions and actual weight to calculate volumetric weight, chargeable weight, and shipping costs.
Your Results
Fill in the package dimensions and weight, then click Calculate Weight to see volumetric weight and chargeable weight.
Understanding volumetric weight
What is Volumetric Weight?
Volumetric weight (also called dimensional weight) is a pricing technique used by courier companies to charge based on package volume rather than actual weight. This ensures fair pricing for lightweight but bulky packages.
Why Volumetric Weight?
Couriers charge based on the space a package occupies in their vehicles, not just its weight. A large, lightweight box takes up the same space as a heavy, compact box. Volumetric weight ensures fair pricing for both scenarios.
How It's Calculated
Volumetric weight is calculated by multiplying length × width × height (in cm) and dividing by a volumetric divisor (typically 5000 or 6000). The courier charges based on whichever is higher: actual weight or volumetric weight.
Impact on Shipping Costs
If your package has high volumetric weight compared to actual weight, you'll pay more for shipping. Optimizing packaging size can significantly reduce shipping costs, especially for lightweight items.
Calculation formula
Volumetric Weight Formula
The volumetric weight calculation uses a simple formula based on package dimensions.
Example: Package dimensions: 40cm × 30cm × 20cm, Divisor: 5000
Volumetric Weight = (40 × 30 × 20) ÷ 5000 = 24,000 ÷ 5000 = 4.8 kg
If actual weight is 2 kg, chargeable weight = max(2, 4.8) = 4.8 kg
Example
Example Calculation
See how volumetric weight affects shipping charges with a real-world example.
Scenario: Shipping a Large Lightweight Item
Step 1: Calculate Volume = 50 × 40 × 30 = 60,000 cm³
Step 2: Volumetric Weight = 60,000 ÷ 5000 = 12 kg
Step 3: Chargeable Weight = max(1.5, 12) = 12 kg
You'll be charged for 12 kg even though the package weighs only 1.5 kg!
FAQ
Volumetric Weight Calculator FAQs
Common questions about volumetric weight, shipping charges, and courier pricing.
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What is volumetric weight?
Volumetric weight (also called dimensional weight) is a pricing method used by couriers to charge based on package volume rather than actual weight. It's calculated by multiplying length × width × height and dividing by a volumetric divisor (typically 5000 or 6000). Couriers charge based on whichever is higher: actual weight or volumetric weight.
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Why do couriers use volumetric weight?
Couriers use volumetric weight because shipping costs depend on the space a package occupies in their vehicles, not just its weight. A large, lightweight box takes up the same space as a heavy, compact box. Volumetric weight ensures fair pricing and prevents loss-making shipments of bulky, lightweight items.
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What is the volumetric divisor?
The volumetric divisor is a number used to convert package volume (cm³) into volumetric weight (kg). Common divisors are 5000 (used by many Indian couriers) and 6000 (used by some international couriers). The divisor varies by courier company and shipping service. Check with your courier for their specific divisor.
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What is chargeable weight?
Chargeable weight is the weight used for shipping cost calculation. It's the higher of actual weight or volumetric weight. For example, if your package weighs 2 kg but has a volumetric weight of 5 kg, you'll be charged for 5 kg. This ensures couriers charge appropriately for bulky packages.
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How can I reduce volumetric weight?
To reduce volumetric weight: use smaller boxes that fit your product snugly, avoid excessive padding (use only what's necessary), consider flat packaging for items that can be folded, use compact packaging materials, and optimize box dimensions to minimize volume while protecting the product.
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Do all couriers use volumetric weight?
Most major courier companies use volumetric weight for pricing, especially for domestic and international shipping. However, rules and divisors may vary by courier, service type, and destination. Some couriers may use volumetric weight only for packages above certain size thresholds. Always check with your courier for their specific rules.
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What happens if volumetric weight is higher than actual weight?
If volumetric weight is higher than actual weight, you'll be charged based on volumetric weight. This means you pay more than you would based on actual weight alone. This is common for lightweight but bulky items. Optimizing packaging size can help reduce costs in such cases.
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How do I measure package dimensions correctly?
Measure the longest side (length), the second longest side (width), and the shortest side (height) in centimeters. Round up to the nearest centimeter. Include any bulges or protrusions in your measurements. Use a measuring tape or ruler, and measure the outer dimensions of the package including packaging materials.
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Are the calculator results accurate for all couriers?
The calculator provides estimated results based on standard volumetric weight calculations. Actual charges may vary based on courier company, service type, destination, volumetric divisor used, and any additional fees. Different couriers may use different divisors (5000, 6000, or others). Always verify with your courier. Results are estimates. Courier rules may vary.