Actual weight vs volumetric weight
Actual weight is the gross weight of the packed shipment. Volumetric (or dimensional) weight converts the volume into a weight using a ratio set by the mode and the carrier. Light, bulky cargo is charged on volume; dense cargo on actual weight.
Common ratios by mode
Always check the ratio in your provider’s quote: couriers and road carriers can use different values, and some road carriers price by loading metre instead.
| Mode | Common ratio | 1 m³ counts as |
|---|---|---|
| Air cargo | 6,000 cm³ per kg | 167 kg |
| Express couriers | 5,000 cm³ per kg | 200 kg |
| Road groupage (Europe) | 1 m³ = 333 kg (varies) | 333 kg |
| Sea LCL | W/M: 1 m³ or 1,000 kg | 1,000 kg (1 revenue ton) |
Worked example
Two boxes of 120 × 80 × 100 cm, each weighing 150 kg. Volume: 1.2 × 0.8 × 1.0 = 0.96 m³ per box, 1.92 m³ in total. Actual weight: 300 kg.
By air (1:6,000) the volumetric weight is 1,920,000 cm³ ÷ 6,000 = 320 kg, so the chargeable weight is 320 kg. By sea LCL the shipment counts as 1.92 revenue tons, because 1.92 m³ is greater than 0.3 t.
Reduce your chargeable weight
- Choose packaging that fits the goods and avoid empty space.
- Consolidate several small boxes onto one pallet only if it does not add volume.
- Check whether stackable cargo can be declared as such.
- For light, bulky goods compare sea or road with air: the gap is often larger than expected.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate volumetric weight for air freight?
Multiply length × width × height in centimetres and divide by 6,000 (or 5,000 for most express couriers). Compare it with the actual weight: the higher value is charged.
What is chargeable weight?
The weight a carrier bills: the greater of the actual gross weight and the volumetric weight of the shipment.