When you are shipping domestic or international packages, shipping charges are calculated on the chargeable weight of the shipment. Chargeable weight is the higher of the two – actual weight or dimensional weight. For example, if the scale reads 10 lbs. of your package but your dimensional weight is 15 lbs, you will be charged for 15 lbs. Your dimensional weight is higher than your actual weight in this case.
WHAT IS DIMENSIONAL WEIGHT?
Dimensional Weight is also known as volumetric weight. Dimensional weight is calculated by the size/volume of your shipment. Dimensional weight is calculated differently for domestic shipment vs international shipment. The concept of dimensional weight has been adopted by the transportation industry worldwide as a uniform means of establishing a minimum charge for the cubic space a package occupies, It is very important to know box dimensions (Length, Weight & Height) to ascertain accurate dimensional weight and shipping charge for your shipment.
TIPS ON SAVING ON DIMENSIONAL WEIGHT
- Use the smallest box possible to ship your items.
- If possible, disassemble items to fit in a smaller size box.
- If you have a multiple-piece shipment, try to share weight equally between boxes to avoid paying extra for dimensional weight boxes.
- If you have odd shape items, ask the shipping company if they can make a custom box to fit your shipping needs.
- If you are shipping fluffy clothes, try to seal them in airtight bags before packing them in boxes.