Actual weight
Actual weight, also called gross weight or physical weight, is what the shipment weighs on a scale, including cartons, packing material and any pallet. It is usually stated per carton on the packing list and checked by the carrier at acceptance.
Volumetric weight
Volumetric weight, also called dimensional (DIM) weight, is calculated from the outside dimensions:
Volumetric weight (kg) = length (cm) × width (cm) × height (cm) ÷ divisor
The divisor depends on the carrier and service. 6000 cm³/kg is a common air freight planning value and 5000 cm³/kg is common for express couriers. Measured in inches and pounds, the same rules are about 166 and 139 cubic inches per pound. Your carrier's terms always take precedence.
Side-by-side example
Two cartons, both 60 × 40 × 40 cm, using a 6000 divisor:
| Carton A: books | Carton B: cushions | |
|---|---|---|
| Actual weight | 28 kg | 6 kg |
| Volumetric weight | 16 kg | 16 kg |
| Charged on | Actual: 28 kg | Volumetric: 16 kg |
Both cartons take the same space, so their volumetric weights match. The dense carton is charged on its scale weight; the light carton pays for the space it takes.
Why carriers use the higher of the two
An aircraft or van fills up either by weight or by space. Charging on the greater of the two makes light, bulky cargo pay for the room it takes and heavy cargo pay for its weight.
How to lower the volumetric weight
- Choose cartons that fit the product closely and remove empty space.
- Consolidate small parcels into fewer, fuller cartons.
- Measure accurately: rounding every dimension up adds volume quickly.
- Compare carriers, since divisors and rounding rules differ.
Compare both weights for your parcels with the Dimensional Weight Calculator, or for air cargo with the Air Freight Chargeable Weight Calculator. The Freight Density Calculator shows how close cargo is to the point where weight and volume are charged the same.