Chargeable Weight Calculator
In freight shipping—especially air and sea—what your cargo weighs isn’t always what you pay for. Instead, carriers charge based on chargeable weight, which compares actual (gross) weight and volumetric (dimensional) weight. You’re billed on whichever is greater.
How Is Chargeable Weight Calculated?
Logistics isn't just about weight. A feather falling out of an airplane takes up massive amounts of cubic space compared to a block of lead. Chargeable weight solves this geometric paradox.
Gross Weight (Actual Weight)
The physical weight of your cargo, including packaging.
Volumetric Weight (Dimensional)
An estimated weight based on how much space your cargo takes up.
The higher of the two becomes the chargeable weight.
Formulas By Mode
Air Freight
Volumetric Weight (kg) = (L × W × H in cm) / 6,000Uses the IATA standard divisor for air cargo.
Example: Box size: 120×80×70 cm, Gross: 40 kg. Volumetric = 112 kg. Chargeable = 112 kg.
Express Couriers
Volumetric Weight = (L × W × H in cm) / 5,000DHL, FedEx, UPS use a different divisor for smaller, time-sensitive shipments.
Sea Freight (LCL)
1 CBM = 1,000 kgBilled per CBM. If 1 CBM < 1,000 kg, billed by volume. If > 1,000 kg, billed by weight.
Road Freight
1 CBM = 333 kgStandard LTL (Less Than Truckload) dimension conversion.
Live Chargeable Weight Calculator
1. Select Transport Mode
2. Dimensions & Weight
3. Final Calculation
Enter your dimensions to begin
Why Accurate Chargeable Weight Matters
Prevents Unexpected Costs
Estimating chargeable weight correctly helps avoid surprise surcharges.
Improves Load Planning
Optimizes how you pack and consolidate goods.
Faster Quotes & Bookings
Accurate data speeds up approvals and booking confirmations.
Ensures Compliance
Some carriers reject under-declared weights at the terminal.
Optimize Your Freight
Our freight experts can help you repack, consolidate, or select the most cost-effective transport mode based on your cargo’s chargeable weight.