If you've ever been surprised by a shipping quote, volumetric weight is usually the reason. Understanding it is the single best way to control your courier costs.
Actual weight vs volumetric weight
Actual weight is straightforward — it's what the parcel weighs on a scale. Volumetric weight (also called dimensional weight) measures how much space the parcel occupies in a vehicle or aircraft. Because carriers sell space as well as capacity, they charge on whichever number is higher.
The formula
Most international couriers use:
Volumetric weight (kg) = (Length × Width × Height in cm) ÷ 5000
So a box that is 40 × 40 × 40 cm has a volumetric weight of 64,000 ÷ 5000 = 12.8 kg, even if it only weighs 4 kg on a scale. You'd be charged for 12.8 kg.
Why couriers do this
A cargo hold fills up with volume long before it hits its weight limit. A single large, light parcel can take the space of several small heavy ones, so pricing on size keeps things fair and keeps aircraft economically loaded.
Five ways to reduce your cost
- 1Right-size the box. Empty space is wasted money. Use the smallest box that safely fits your item.
- 2Remove bulky packaging. Ship items without their oversized retail boxes where safe to do so.
- 3Consolidate. One well-packed parcel usually beats several small ones.
- 4Choose flexible cushioning. Bubble wrap and paper protect without adding much volume.
- 5Ask us to compare. Different networks weight dimensions slightly differently — we pick the best fit.
A quick worked example
Say you're sending clothes to the UK. They weigh 3 kg but you've used a 50 × 40 × 30 cm box. Volumetric weight = 60,000 ÷ 5000 = 12 kg. Switch to a 40 × 30 × 20 cm box and volumetric weight drops to 24,000 ÷ 5000 = 4.8 kg — a large saving, just from smarter packing.
What else affects the price
Beyond weight, expect fuel surcharges (which move with global fuel prices), remote-area surcharges for out-of-the-way destinations, and customs duties set by the destination country. We flag these upfront so your quote holds few surprises.
The bottom line: weigh and measure before you ship, and pack tight. When you request a quote from us, share the dimensions and we'll calculate both numbers for you.
