GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 22, 2026
Volumetric weight
Carriers apply volumetric weight when a shipment occupies disproportionate space relative to its actual mass—a hold filled before the weight limit is reached still represents lost revenue.
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Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volumetric_weight
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Definition & Explanation
Carriers apply volumetric weight when a shipment occupies disproportionate space relative to its actual mass—a hold filled before the weight limit is reached still represents lost revenue. It is calculated by dividing the shipment's volume (length × width × height in centimetres) by a dimensional divisor: typically 5,000–6,000 cm³/kg for air freight and 3,000–4,000 cm³/kg for express and courier services. Whichever is higher—volumetric weight or actual gross weight—becomes the chargeable weight. The concept is standard across air, express, and parcel freight; in LCL ocean freight the equivalent is quoted as weight or measurement (W/M). Shippers can reduce freight costs by packaging compactly and eliminating unnecessary void fill.
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