GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 22, 2026
Mass
Freight forwarders, carriers, and customs authorities deal with the mass of goods as a matter of daily routine.
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Source: https://www.logistik-lexikon.de/definition/masse/
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Definition & Explanation
Freight forwarders, carriers, and customs authorities deal with the mass of goods as a matter of daily routine. Mass is the physical base quantity describing the material content of an object, expressed in freight contexts as kilograms or tonnes. When rating a shipment, actual mass must always be weighed against volumetric weight (chargeable weight): the higher figure governs the charge. For light, bulky goods such as foam products or electronics packaging, volumetric weight routinely exceeds actual mass, directly driving up freight costs. In road transport, statutory maximum weight limits apply, and exceeding them can result in fines and liability exposure. Under customs law, mass serves as the basis for calculating weight-based duties and must be accurately declared on customs entries.
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