Shipping & Carriers

Understanding volumetric weight

Why a light but bulky box can cost more to ship than a small heavy one.

Carriers charge shipments based on whichever is greater: the actual weight or the volumetric (dimensional) weight. Volumetric weight approximates how much space a package takes up on a plane or truck.

It is calculated as (length × width × height in centimeters) ÷ 5000. If this number is higher than the actual weight in kilograms, the carrier bills you for the volumetric weight instead. This is why repacking bulky retail boxes into tighter packaging can noticeably reduce your shipping cost.

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