Dimensional Weight

What is Dimensional Weight?

A "weight equivalent" for your goods calculated using the actual weight and the volume of your shipment. The method used to calculate volumetric weight varies by mode of transportation or trade lane.

Carriers use dimensional weight as a means to help manage the balance between size and weight that is 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.

Also called DIM weight.

DIM Weight

Chargeable Weight

What is freight class?

Freight manager with white hardhat looking at the camera with serious face expression

Freight Services

Whether you’re a seasoned supply chain expert or this is your first time just starting out, we’re here to help.

Learn More

Loading cargo on plane in airport before flight

Air Freight

If you’re shipping air freight, it’s critical. Our International and North American Air Freight services offers day-specific, door-to-door service to 220+ countries.

Learn More

Freight container ship in the middle of the ocean

Ocean Freight

Every day we move ocean freight across 2,300+ lanes. So if you're nervous about going ocean, don't sweat it.

Learn More

Ready to Ship?

Dashboard icon for Hub

The UPS® Forwarding Hub

Our all-in-one customer portal lets you get and compare quotes, book and track shipments all on one modern, easy-to-navigate platform.

Get a Freight Quote

Article icon for Email Sign Up

Stay Informed

Get weekly insights into all things freight and logistics, delivered right to your inbox.

Sign Me Up