Dimensional Weight Calculator

Find the dimensional (volumetric) weight of a parcel and the weight a carrier will bill. The dimensional weight calculator uses the standard divisors for express, postal, and air freight.

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Units

Billable weight
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How to use the Dimensional Weight Calculator

  1. Choose cm and kg or inches and lb.
  2. Enter the Length, Width, Height, and the Actual weight, then pick the carrier's DIM divisor.
  3. Press Calculate. The billable weight appears first, with the dimensional weight and volume.

How it works

dimensional weight = length × width × height ÷ divisor
billable weight = the larger of dimensional and actual weight,
                  rounded up to the next 0.5 kg or 1 lb
  • 5000 cm³/kg: most express carriers; 6000: some postal and air services
  • 139 in³/lb: UPS and FedEx daily rates; 166: USPS and retail rates

Examples

  • 40 × 30 × 20 cm with a 5000 divisor: 4.8 kg dimensional weight. If the parcel weighs 3.5 kg, you are billed for 5 kg.
  • 16 × 12 × 8 inches with a 139 divisor: 11.1 lb, billed as 12 lb.

How to lower dimensional weight

Use the smallest box that protects the item, and avoid large boxes filled with padding. Measure to the nearest whole unit, as carriers do, and check whether soft items can go in a poly mailer instead.

Limitations

  • Carriers round dimensions and weights in slightly different ways. Check your carrier's rules.
  • Divisors change with contracts and services. Use the one on your rate card.

Frequently asked questions

What is dimensional weight?

A billing weight based on a parcel's size, used so large light boxes pay for the space they take.

How do I calculate DIM weight?

Multiply length, width, and height, then divide by the carrier's divisor.

Which divisor should I use?

The one your carrier lists. 5000 for many express services in cm and kg, 139 for UPS and FedEx in inches and pounds.

Often used together with the Dimensional Weight Calculator.