Shipping Tips
What Is Volumetric Weight and How Is It Calculated?
Rolling Cargo
A package may feel light, but if it takes up a lot of space it can still cost more to ship. Understanding volumetric weight helps you estimate shipping charges accurately.
What Is Volumetric Weight?
- Volumetric weight, also known as dimensional weight, is a way of calculating shipping charges based on the amount of space a package occupies rather than its actual weight.
- For air freight, shipping charges are based on whichever is higher: the actual weight or the volumetric weight.
How to Calculate Volumetric Weight
- Measure the package in centimeters: Length × Width × Height ÷ 6,000
- The answer gives you the volumetric weight in kilograms.
- Example: If a carton measures 60 cm × 50 cm × 40 cm:
- 60 × 50 × 40 = 120,000 ÷ 6,000 = 20 kg
- Even if the carton weighs only 8 kg, the chargeable weight will be 20 kg because it occupies more space.
Why Volumetric Weight Matters
Airlines charge for both space and weight. Large but lightweight items — such as pillows, lampshades, plastic products, and shoe boxes — can attract higher shipping charges because they take up more room.
How Rolling Cargo Charges
At Rolling Cargo, air freight charges are based on the actual weight or volumetric weight, whichever is higher.
How to Reduce Volumetric Weight
- Use compact packaging and remove unnecessary empty space. Smaller cartons can significantly reduce shipping costs.
- Understanding volumetric weight helps you estimate your shipping charges more accurately and avoid surprises.
Need Help Calculating Your Shipping Cost?
Call or WhatsApp us on 0706 289289 and our team will be happy to assist you.