HOW IS CARGO WEIGHT CALCULATED? ACTUAL VS VOLUMETRIC WEIGHT

Ever wondered why a large but light box can cost more to ship than a small heavy one? That is because shipping companies charge on chargeable weight — the higher of the actual weight and the volumetric (dimensional) weight.

Actual weight

This is simply what your package weighs on a scale, including the box and packing material.

Volumetric weight

Volumetric weight reflects how much space your package takes up in the aircraft or truck. It is calculated from the package dimensions in centimetres:

Most express courier and air services use a divisor of 5000 (some use 6000). Sea freight is usually charged per cubic metre (CBM) instead.

A quick example

A box measuring 50 × 40 × 40 cm that weighs 8 kg:

• Volumetric weight = 50 × 40 × 40 ÷ 5000 = 16 kg
• Actual weight = 8 kg
• Chargeable weight = the higher value = 16 kg

How to lower your shipping cost

• Use a box that fits your items closely — avoid empty space
• Combine several small parcels into one well-packed box
• Remove bulky outer packaging when it is safe to do so
• Ask us whether cargo or sea freight is cheaper for larger volumes