Chargeable Weight Calculator

What is Chargeable Weight?  

In freight shipping, the weight you're charged for might not match the actual weight of your shipment. This is because logistics providers need to consider both the weight and space when deciding rates. To determine an efficient and fair system, logistic providers use the concept of "chargeable weight".  

The chargeable weight is the greater of the actual weight and the dimensional weight. This system helps logistics providers manage their space efficiently and charge customers fairly based on both weight and volume. To help avoid unexpected shipping fees, our free chargeable weight calculator tool can help you determine the chargeable weight of your goods. This calculator uses industry standards for calculating the weight, but the actual calculations may vary by shipping carrier.

Actual Weight vs. Dimensional Weight (Volumetric Weight)

Actual Weight: 
This is simply how much your shipment weighs when you put it on a scale. Actual weight can also be called gross weight.

Dimensional Weight (Volumetric Weight):
This reflects the volume of your shipment, or the amount of space your shipment occupies in relation to its actual weight. Dimensional weight converts volume into a weight equivalent, establishing a minimum weight for the cubic space a shipment occupies. The method used to calculate this weight varies by mode of transportation or trade lane, using a dimensional factor.

Carriers use dimensional weight to help manage the balance between size and weight necessary to consider when filling shipping containers. 

The cost of a shipment is determined based on the actual weight or the dimensional weight, whichever is greater. 

How to Calculate Dimensional Weight

To calculate the dimensional weight, measure your shipment rounding each measurement to the nearest whole number. Then, divide its volume (units x length x width x height) by the appropriate dimensional factor, often shortened to dim factor.

Your dim factor depends on your shipment mode and details. To get started now, create a quote on the UPS^® Forwarding Hub. Enter the specifications of your shipment and we will calculate this for you.

Calculation:
Measure the dimensions of your freight: length, width, and height.
Use the formula: (Units x L x W x H)/dim factor