Dimensional Weight Calculator
Calculate volumetric weight using carrier-specific divisors. Multi-piece support with unit conversion and rounding options.
Enter Dimensions
| Length (cm) | Width (cm) | Height (cm) | Qty | Weight (kg) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
How Dimensional Weight Works
Carriers use dimensional weight (DIM weight) to price shipments based on package size, not just physical weight. This prevents shippers from paying low rates for large, lightweight packages.
The formula is simple:
The divisor varies by carrier. Express services typically use 5000 cm³/kg (or 139 in³/lb), while economy services may use 6000 cm³/kg (or 166 in³/lb).
Worked Example
Example: Shipping 2 boxes via DHL Express
Box 1: 40cm × 30cm × 20cm, Qty: 2, Actual weight: 3kg each
- Volume = 40 × 30 × 20 = 24,000 cm³ per box
- Dimensional weight = 24,000 ÷ 5000 = 4.8 kg per box
- Total for 2 boxes = 4.8 × 2 = 9.6 kg dimensional
- Actual weight for 2 boxes = 3 × 2 = 6 kg
- Chargeable = max(9.6, 6) = 9.6 kg
Box 2: 60cm × 40cm × 40cm, Qty: 1, Actual weight: 15kg
- Volume = 60 × 40 × 40 = 96,000 cm³
- Dimensional weight = 96,000 ÷ 5000 = 19.2 kg
- Chargeable = max(19.2, 15) = 19.2 kg
Total chargeable weight: 9.6 + 19.2 = 28.8 kg
With DHL's 0.5kg rounding: 10 + 19.5 = 29.5 kg
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- 1.Using the wrong divisor
Divisors vary by carrier and service level. Express is usually 5000, economy is often 6000.
- 2.Forgetting to round
Many carriers round up to 0.5kg or 1kg. Check your rate card.
- 3.Mixing units
Use metric (cm/kg with divisor 5000) or imperial (in/lb with divisor 139) consistently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is dimensional weight?
Dimensional weight (also called volumetric weight or DIM weight) is a pricing technique used by carriers. It calculates weight based on package dimensions rather than actual weight, using the formula: Volume ÷ Divisor. Carriers charge the greater of actual weight or dimensional weight.
What divisor should I use?
The divisor depends on your carrier and service. Common metric divisors are 5000 (express services) and 6000 (economy). Imperial divisors are typically 139 or 166. Always confirm with your carrier as rates can vary by account.
How do I calculate dimensional weight for multiple packages?
Calculate the dimensional weight for each package separately, then sum them. Use our multi-piece calculator above—add a row for each package type and specify the quantity.
What is chargeable weight?
Chargeable weight (or billed weight) is the weight used to calculate shipping cost. It's the greater of actual weight or dimensional weight. Some carriers round up to the nearest 0.5kg or 1kg.
Why is my package charged by dimensional weight?
If your package is large but light (like a pillow or empty box), its dimensional weight exceeds its actual weight. Carriers charge the higher value to reflect the space your package occupies in their vehicles.
Related Tools & Guides
What is Dimensional Weight?
Complete guide to DIM weight
CBM Calculator
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Chargeable Weight Calculator
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How to Calculate DIM Weight
Step-by-step guide with examples
What is a Divisor?
Understanding the DIM factor
What is Chargeable Weight?
Understanding billable weight