Dimensional weight, also called DIM weight or volumetric weight, is a shipping pricing method based on the amount of space a package occupies rather than only its scale weight. Carriers calculate it by multiplying length, width, and height, then dividing by a dimensional factor. The carrier usually compares dimensional weight with actual weight and charges based on the higher number. DIM weight is especially important for large, lightweight packages that take up valuable truck, aircraft, or warehouse space.
How to Calculate Dimensional Weight
- Air freight: (L cm x W cm x H cm) / 6,000 = kg
- Express couriers: (L cm x W cm x H cm) / 5,000 = kg
- LCL ocean freight: 1 CBM = 1,000 kg for comparison purposes
Light, bulky shipments almost always bill on dimensional weight in air freight. Reducing packaging dimensions reduces the billable weight and freight cost.
