How to calculate volumetric weight
- Measure length, width and height of the packed parcel (round up to the nearest unit).
- Pick your carrier divisor — 5,000 for cm/kg with most couriers, 139 for in/lb in the US.
- Enter the actual weight — the calculator shows the chargeable weight, which is the greater of the two.
Common dimensional weight divisors
| Units | Divisor | Used by |
|---|---|---|
| cm / kg | 5,000 | DHL, FedEx, UPS, TNT (standard) |
| cm / kg | 6,000 | IATA air freight |
| in / lb | 139 | UPS, FedEx (US domestic) |
| in / lb | 166 | USPS, older carrier rates |
Divisors and rounding rules vary by carrier and service — always confirm with your courier. This tool is a guide for estimating shipping costs.
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Frequently asked questions
What is volumetric weight?
Volumetric (or dimensional) weight reflects how much space a parcel takes up rather than how heavy it is. Couriers compare it with the actual weight and charge you for whichever is greater, so a large but light box can cost more than its real weight suggests.
How do I calculate volumetric weight?
Multiply the parcel’s length × width × height, then divide by the carrier’s divisor. For centimetres and kilograms the standard divisor is 5,000 (e.g. 40×30×20 cm ÷ 5,000 = 4.8 kg). For inches and pounds, US carriers usually use 139.
What divisor should I use?
Most international couriers (DHL, FedEx, UPS, TNT) use 5,000 for cm/kg; air freight often uses 6,000. For US domestic inches/pounds, UPS and FedEx use 139 (USPS and older rates use 166). Pick the one your carrier states.
Why do couriers charge volumetric weight?
Space on a vehicle or plane is limited. A big, light parcel uses space that could carry heavier items, so carriers bill the larger of actual and volumetric weight to price by the space used.