Shipping costs can be confusing, especially when you come across terms like “chargeable weight,” “volumetric weight,” and “actual weight.” When shipping goods, especially by air, calculating the correct chargeable weight is important. This weight determines the shipping cost, ensuring that both the shipper and carrier are fairly compensated.
Understanding how to calculate chargeable weight can save you money and prevent shipping delays. This article will guide you through the basics of chargeable weight, why it’s important, and how to calculate it in simple steps.
What is Chargeable Weight?
Chargeable weight is the weight used to determine the cost of shipping your goods. It can be either the actual weight or the volumetric (dimensional) weight, whichever is greater. This ensures that the carrier is compensated fairly for the space your shipment occupies and the weight it adds to the load.
Actual Weight vs. Volumetric Weight
Actual weight is the weight of the shipment when placed on a scale. It is straightforward and is usually measured in kilograms (kg) or pounds (lbs).
Volumetric weight, also known as dimensional weight, considers the amount of space your shipment takes up. It’s calculated based on the dimensions of the package: length, width, and height. This method ensures that bulky items that take up a lot of space but are light in weight are charged fairly.
Choosing the Chargeable Weight
Once you have calculated both the actual weight and the volumetric weight, the chargeable weight will be the higher of the two. This ensures that the shipping cost reflects either the weight or the space occupied by the package, whichever is more significant.
Example 1: Actual Weight is Greater
- Package Dimensions: 50 x 40 x 40 cm
- Actual Weight: 20 kg
- Volumetric Weight: (50 x 40 x 40) / 6000 = 13.33 kg
- Chargeable Weight: 20 kg (actual weight is higher)
Example 2: Volumetric Weight is Greater
- Package Dimensions: 100 x 50 x 50 cm
- Actual Weight: 10 kg
- Volumetric Weight: (100 x 50 x 50) / 6000 = 41.67 kg
- Chargeable Weight: 41.67 kg (volumetric weight is higher)
Why Accurate Weight and Dimensions Matter
Providing accurate weight and dimensions is important when calculating the chargeable weight. If you underestimate the size or weight, you might face additional charges once the courier measures the package. Overestimating can lead to higher shipping costs than necessary.
Avoiding Extra Charges
Couriers often check the dimensions and weight of packages during transit using precise measuring equipment. If there is a discrepancy between what you declared and what the courier measures, you could be charged extra to cover the difference. Accurate measurements help avoid unexpected costs.
Impact on Shipping Costs
The chargeable weight directly influences the shipping cost. By accurately measuring and calculating the chargeable weight, you can better estimate the shipping costs and avoid surprises.
Why Do Couriers Use Volumetric Weight?
Couriers use volumetric weight to ensure that the shipping charges reflect the space a package occupies. This method prevents a large but lightweight package from being shipped at a low cost simply because it weighs less. By considering both the weight and the volume of a package, couriers can more accurately charge for the space used during transportation.
How to Calculate Volumetric Weight
To calculate the volumetric weight, you need to know the dimensions of your package: length, width, and height. These dimensions should be in the same unit of measurement (inches or centimeters). Different couriers use different formulas, but the basic principle remains the same.
Volumetric Weight in Inches
- Measure the Length, Width, and Height: Measure the dimensions of your package in inches.
- Calculate the Cubic Inches: Multiply the length by the width by the height to get the cubic inches (L x W x H).
- Convert to Volumetric Weight: Divide the cubic inch result by the dimensional factor. Commonly used factors are 166 for inches and 366 for centimeters.
Example:
- Length = 20 inches
- Width = 15 inches
- Height = 10 inches
- Cubic Inches = 20 x 15 x 10 = 3000 cubic inches
- Volumetric Weight = 3000 / 166 = 18.07 pounds
Volumetric Weight in Centimeters
- Measure the Length, Width, and Height: Measure the dimensions of your package in centimeters.
- Calculate the Cubic Centimeters: Multiply the length by the width by the height to get the cubic centimeters (L x W x H).
- Convert to Volumetric Weight: Divide the cubic centimeter result by the dimensional factor, commonly 6000 for centimeters.
Example:
- Length = 50 cm
- Width = 40 cm
- Height = 30 cm
- Cubic Centimeters = 50 x 40 x 30 = 60000 cubic centimeters
- Volumetric Weight = 60000 / 6000 = 10 kg
Special Cases and Courier-Specific Calculations
Different couriers might have variations in how they calculate volumetric weight and chargeable weight. Here are a few examples:
DHL
Formula: (L x W x H) / 5000 for international shipments.
For some destinations, the dimensional factor might be different based on specific criteria.
FedEx
- International Shipments: (L x W x H) / 6000 or / 5000 depending on the region.
- Domestic Shipments: (L x W x H) / 7000.
UPS
Formula: (L x W x H) / 6000 or / 5000 depending on the country or region.
Special Considerations
- Multiple Packages: If shipping multiple packages, calculate the chargeable weight for each package individually and then sum them up.
- Odd Shapes: For irregularly shaped items, use the maximum dimensions to calculate volumetric weight.
- Carrier Policies: Different carriers might have different formulas or conversion factors. Always check with your carrier.
Tips for Reducing Chargeable Weight
Reducing chargeable weight can significantly lower your shipping costs. Here are some practical tips to help you achieve this:
1. Optimize Packaging
Choose the smallest possible box that can safely contain your item. Using oversized boxes increases the volumetric weight unnecessarily. Measure your items and select packaging that fits snugly.
2. Use Lightweight Materials
Whenever possible, opt for lightweight packaging materials such as bubble wrap, foam peanuts, or air pillows. These provide cushioning without adding much to the actual weight. Avoid heavy fillers like newspaper or cloth.
3. Disassemble Large Items
If you’re shipping items that can be taken apart, disassemble them. This can significantly reduce the dimensions of the package, lowering the volumetric weight. Make sure to include instructions for reassembly at the destination.
4. Remove Excess Packaging
Avoid overpacking your items. While it’s important to ensure they are protected, excessive packaging adds unnecessary weight. Find a balance between protection and weight efficiency.
5. Use Compression
For items like clothing or soft goods, use vacuum-sealed bags to reduce their volume. This can help decrease the dimensions of the package, leading to a lower volumetric weight.
6. Flat Pack When Possible
For items like furniture or flat materials, use flat packing methods. This reduces the overall height of the package, contributing to a lower volumetric weight.
7. Choose the Right Carrier
Different carriers have different policies and formulas for calculating chargeable weight. Research and compare carriers to find the one that offers the most favorable rates for your specific shipment dimensions and weight.
8. Consolidate Shipments
If you’re shipping multiple items to the same destination, consider consolidating them into a single shipment. This can sometimes reduce the overall chargeable weight compared to shipping items individually.
Closing Thoughts
Calculating chargeable weight is a straightforward process that ensures fair shipping costs. By understanding and applying the concepts of actual weight and volumetric weight, you can optimize your shipping expenses and ensure your packages are cost-efficiently shipped. Always remember to measure accurately and consult your carrier for specific guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my package is very light but takes up a lot of space?
In such cases, the volumetric weight will likely be higher than the actual weight, and it will be used as the chargeable weight.
Do all carriers use the same formula for volumetric weight?
No, different carriers may use slightly different formulas or conversion factors. Always check with your specific carrier.
Can I reduce my shipping costs by using different packaging?
Yes, optimizing your packaging to reduce dimensions can help lower the volumetric weight, potentially reducing shipping costs.
How accurate do my measurements need to be?
Measurements should be as accurate as possible, especially for high-value shipments or those close to dimensional thresholds that affect cost.
What happens if I underestimate my chargeable weight?
If the carrier determines that the chargeable weight is higher than what was declared, you may face additional charges or delays.
