Parcel weight is one of the factors considered when calculating international courier service rates. Weight is of two types: the actual weight and volumetric weight, and the higher of these is the chargeable weight. The formula for calculating volumetric weight is length × width × height (in cm) ÷ 5000. Atlantic International Express’s online volumetric weight calculator for couriers makes calculation easy. You can learn about the girth, chargeable weight, and UPS surcharges, if applicable, based on the delivery destination.
Volumetric weight is also known as dimensional weight. It is the weight calculated based on the parcel’s size and not the actual weight. Courier companies check volumetric weight at the time of booking. This is because a large, lightweight parcel can take up as much space as a smaller, heavier one on an aircraft.
For example, a large box of pillows may weigh only 2 kg on a scale, but it takes up the space of 5 kg. In this case, the courier may charge based on the higher weight of 5 kg.
Knowing about the volumetric weight before preparing your parcel can help you choose the right box size. It also helps avoid paying extra for the unused space.
Measure the length, width, and height of the packed parcel. Use this formula to get the volumetric weight in kg. Our online volumetric/dimensional weight calculator uses 5000 as a common divisor for parcels.
Here is an example of Volumetric weight calculation
| Measurables | Value |
|---|---|
| Parcel Size (Length, Width, Height) | 60x40x40 cm |
| Actual weight | 12 kg |
| Volumetric weight | 19.2 kg |
| Chargeable Weight | 19.5 kg |
The volumetric weight (19.2 kg) is higher than the actual weight (12 kg). So, the parcel is charged at 19.5 kg after rounding up to the next half kilogram.
Choose a smaller box that fits your items. Avoid empty spaces and excess packaging. If you have two items, pack them together in one box, and reduce shipping cost. When booking, measure the packed box, not just the product, as couriers consider the outer dimensions of the package
Girth: Girth is the measurement around your parcel. To calculate girth, first identify the longest side of the packed box. Then find out the height and width, and use the formula 2 × (Width + Height) to calculate girth. To calculate Length + Girth, you have to add the value of the longest side to Girth. The formula for the length-girth calculator is Length + 2 (Width+Height).
Chargeable Weight: Chargeable weight is the higher of the parcel's actual weight and volumetric weight. It is used by the courier charges calculator to calculate shipping charges.
UPS surcharges are extra fees added to shipping costs under certain conditions. The table below shows situations where and when, in the dimensional/volumetric weight calculator, UPS surcharges apply.
| Charges | When it applies |
|---|---|
| Freight | When a shipment is sent as freight |
| Additional Handling | When a parcel is too heavy, too large, or needs special handling. |
| Large Package | When a parcel exceeds UPS's size limits. |
| Over Maximum Limits | If the parcel exceeds the maximum allowed weight or size. |
| Pallet Handling (WWEF) | Additional handling charges for palletised shipments. The charges depend on the applicable UPS service and conditions. |
In addition to the above, fuel surcharges and 18% GST are extra to the total charges.
Volumetric weight is calculated by considering the length, height, and width of the parcel. The formula is Length × Width × Height (cm) ÷ 5000.
The divisor 5000 is a standard volume-to-weight ratio set by the international logistics industry. This divisor helps balance the volume and actual weight for efficient cargo space pricing.
Girth is calculated using the formula: 2 × (Width + Height). This formula helps measure the circumference of an object or a parcel.
Chargeable weight is calculated by comparing the actual weight and the volumetric weight. The chargeable weight calculator considers the higher of the two weights as the chargeable weight.
Both 5000 and 6000 are correct when calculating volumetric weight. However, it depends on the courier company what to use. Atlantic International Express uses 5000 as the divisor for calculating volumetric weight.
No, the final shipping charges are determined by various factors. They include the weight (actual/volumetric weight), destination, shipping mode, and other applicable charges. Use our online courier rate calculator for a quick estimate or contact our support team with your parcel details.
