Dimensional Weight Calculator
Compare the actual weight of your parcels with their dimensional weight. Choose a divisor preset or enter the divisor your carrier uses.
Results
Assumptions
There is no universal divisor. The presets are common planning conventions only; carriers and services set their own divisor, rounding and minimums.
Dimensional weight is calculated per piece from the entered dimensions and multiplied by quantity. No carrier rounding (for example to the next 0.5 kg or 1 lb) is applied.
How the Dimensional Weight Calculator works
For each parcel size, the calculator multiplies length, width and height in the divisor's unit, divides by the divisor and multiplies by the quantity. It totals the actual weight you enter and compares the two. The greater one is the estimated billable basis.
The divisor is always shown and can be changed. Presets are common planning values, not the rule of any particular carrier.
Formula
Dimensional weight = L × W × H ÷ divisor Billable basis = greater of actual weight and dimensional weight Divisor 5000 cm³/kg → 200 kg per m³ Divisor 139 in³/lb → 12.43 lb per ft³
Worked example
Parcel 50 × 40 × 30 cm, actual weight 8 kg, divisor 5000 50 × 40 × 30 = 60,000 cm³ 60,000 ÷ 5000 = 12 kg dimensional Billable basis: 12 kg (dimensional is greater)
When to use it
- Choosing a box size before shipping with a courier.
- Checking a courier invoice that charged more than the scale weight.
- Comparing services that use different divisors.
Limitations
Carriers set their own divisors, rounding rules (per parcel or per shipment, to the next 0.5 kg or 1 lb) and surcharges for oversized parcels. This calculator applies only the divisor you choose. For multi-piece air cargo, use the Air Freight Chargeable Weight Calculator.
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Frequently asked questions
What divisor should I use?
Use the divisor in your carrier's or forwarder's terms. 5000 cm³/kg is common for couriers and 6000 cm³/kg for air freight, but there is no universal value, so the divisor is always editable.
Is dimensional weight the same as volumetric weight?
Yes. Both terms describe the weight equivalent of a parcel's size, calculated from its dimensions and a divisor.
Why was I charged for more than my parcel weighs?
If the dimensional weight is greater than the actual weight, carriers charge on the dimensional weight. A smaller box usually lowers it.