Volume/Density Calculator
The expense of shipping can be influenced by the space consumed on an aircraft rather than just the physical weight. This is known as volumetric (or dimensional) weight. Use the tool below to compute the volumetric weight of your shipment.
Determine the volumetric weight/density of your shipment
Volumetric weight/density is a calculation that mirrors the density of a shipment. A less dense shipment typically occupies more space compared to its actual weight. The volumetric or dimensional weight is computed and then compared with the actual weight of a shipment to determine which one is higher; the greater weight is utilized to calculate the shipping cost.
Volume Calculator
Volumetric weight, also known as dimensional weight, is a method used by shipping companies to account for the space a package occupies in relation to its actual weight. It helps determine shipping costs when packages are lightweight but occupy a large volume.
Volumetric weight is calculated by multiplying the length, width, and height of a package in centimeters and then dividing the result by a volumetric divisor agreed upon by the shipping company. The formula is (Length x Width x Height) / Volumetric Divisor.
Shipping charges are typically based on whichever is greater between the volumetric weight and the actual weight of the package. This ensures fair pricing, especially for lightweight packages that occupy significant space.
To use our volumetric weight calculator, simply input the dimensions (length, width, and height) of your package and its actual weight in your chosen measurement unit, then click Calculate. You may add additional packages using the Add Shipment button, and then export the results if needed.
Some items, such as documents or very lightweight parcels, may be exempt from volumetric weight calculations. However, specific exemptions may vary depending on the shipping company and the nature of the shipment.
To minimize volumetric weight charges, consider using packaging materials that are as compact and lightweight as possible without compromising the integrity of the contents. Remove excess air and use appropriately sized boxes to reduce unused space.
If the actual weight and volumetric weight of a package differ significantly, shipping charges will be based on the higher of the two weights. This ensures that shipping costs accurately reflect the space taken up by the package during transit.
While using our volumetric weight calculator provides accurate estimates, you can also contact our customer service team for assistance in estimating shipping costs based on package dimensions and weight.
Understanding Freight Shipping and Its Importance
Freight shipping is a critical component of the global supply chain, facilitating the movement of goods from manufacturers to consumers. Whether you’re a small business owner shipping products to customers or a large enterprise moving bulk goods internationally, understanding the nuances of freight shipping can significantly impact your operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Our comprehensive freight calculator is designed to simplify this process, allowing you to accurately calculate volumetric weight, actual weight, and chargeable weight for various shipping methods, including express, air freight, ocean freight, and trucking freight.
How to Use Our Freight Calculator
Using our freight calculator is straightforward. Simply input the dimensions (length, width, height) of your package and its actual weight. Select the unit of measurement (imperial or metric) and the type of shipping (express, air freight, ocean freight, or trucking freight). Our calculator will provide you with the volumetric weight and chargeable weight for most shipping types, and for trucking freight, it will also determine the freight class based on the density of your shipment. This tool helps you make informed decisions, ensuring you choose the most cost-effective shipping method for your needs.
Optimize Your Shipping Strategy
Accurate freight calculations are essential for optimizing your shipping strategy. Overestimating or underestimating the weight and volume of your shipments can lead to unnecessary costs or logistical challenges. By using our freight calculator, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure that your shipping costs are aligned with your budget. Whether you are dealing with international shipments requiring ocean freight or domestic deliveries via trucking freight, our calculator provides the precision needed to streamline your shipping operations and reduce expenses.
The Benefits of Knowing Your Freight Class
For those utilizing trucking freight, understanding your shipment’s freight class is crucial. Freight class, determined by the density of your shipment, directly influences shipping rates. Lower-density items typically fall into higher freight classes, which can be more expensive. Our calculator not only computes the freight class for trucking shipments but also helps you understand how to pack your goods more efficiently to potentially lower your freight class and save on shipping costs. Leverage this knowledge to enhance your shipping practices and achieve greater cost savings.