Volumetric Weight

What Is Volumetric Weight?

Volumetric weight, also called dimensional weight, is a pricing calculation used by carriers that estimates a shipment's weight based on its size (volume) rather than its actual physical weight, used to charge appropriately for bulky, lightweight packages.

How Is Volumetric Weight Calculated?

Volumetric weight is calculated by multiplying a package's length, width, and height, then dividing by a volumetric factor set by the carrier (commonly 5000 or 6000 for different carriers and modes). Carriers charge based on whichever is greater: the actual weight or the volumetric weight.

Why Volumetric Weight Matters

Shipments that are large relative to their actual weight, like packaging for lightweight but bulky items, can end up costing significantly more than their actual weight would suggest, since carriers are effectively charging for the space the package occupies, not just its mass. Optimizing packaging size to minimize wasted volume is a direct, practical way to reduce shipping costs for bulky, lightweight products.