Volumetric Weight Calculator
Work out the dimensional weight and chargeable weight for air and courier shipments. Enter the parcel dimensions and actual weight, pick the carrier divisor, and see which figure you will be billed on.
Dimensional weight calculator
Formula: dimensional weight = (L × W × H) ÷ divisor. The carrier bills the greater of actual and dimensional weight (the chargeable weight). Divisors vary by carrier and service — verify before quoting.
Direct answer
- • Dimensional weight = (length × width × height) ÷ divisor.
- • Chargeable weight = the greater of actual scale weight and dimensional weight.
- • Common divisors: ÷139 (IATA international air, in/lb), ÷166 (IATA US domestic air, in/lb), ÷5000 (common air, cm/kg), ÷6000 (some carriers / road, cm/kg).
Common dimensional-weight divisors
| System | Divisor | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| in / lb | ÷ 139 | IATA international air freight |
| in / lb | ÷ 166 | IATA US domestic air |
| cm / kg | ÷ 5000 | DHL / UPS / FedEx air express (most common) |
| cm / kg | ÷ 6000 | Some carriers, road & sea freight |
Divisors are commercial rules set by carriers and IATA, not physical constants. They change with fuel surcharges and service level — always confirm the current divisor on the carrier’s rate sheet before quoting a customer.
How to use the result
1. Measure the parcel’s outside dimensions (L × W × H), including any protrusions and packaging.
2. Multiply them and divide by the carrier’s divisor to get dimensional weight.
3. Compare dimensional weight with the scale weight — bill the higher one (chargeable weight).
4. If dimensional weight dominates, compress or use a smaller carton to lower the billed weight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is volumetric (dimensional) weight?
Carriers price light-but-bulky shipments by volume, not just scale weight. Dimensional weight = (length × width × height) ÷ a divisor set by the carrier. You are billed for the greater of the actual scale weight and the dimensional weight — that greater value is the "chargeable weight".
What divisor should I use?
For inches and pounds, IATA international air uses ÷139 and US domestic air uses ÷166. For centimetres and kilograms, the common air standard is ÷5000 (DHL, UPS, FedEx), with some carriers and road/sea services using ÷6000. Always confirm the divisor on the carrier’s current rate sheet — it is a commercial rule, not a fixed constant.
Why is my chargeable weight higher than the scale weight?
A large, light parcel occupies cabin/container volume that could carry denser freight. When dimensional weight exceeds actual weight, the carrier bills the dimensional figure so it is compensated for the space used. This is normal for pillows, apparel, and inflated packaging.
Can I print this for a quote or handoff?
Yes. Use the "Print / Save as PDF" button — it prints cleanly on A4/Letter with navigation removed, useful for quoting or handing the calculation to a colleague.
Related Converters
Sources & Accuracy
The dimensional-weight method and the 139 / 166 divisors follow the IATA air-cargo weighting rules. The 5000 / 6000 cm³-per-kg factors are the standard express and freight practices published by major carriers (DHL, UPS, FedEx).
These divisors are commercial rates, not physical constants, and can vary by service, lane and surcharge. Confirm the divisor on the carrier’s current rate sheet before billing.
Last Updated 2026 | Dimensional-weight method per IATA air-cargo rules; carrier divisors confirmed against current express-rate practice.