Calculate billable dimensional weight for air express, international air cargo, road surface logistics, and domestic couriers. Compare gross weight vs volumetric weight instantly.
Understanding Volumetric (DIM) Weight in Freight
Freight carriers charge based on either Actual Gross Weight or Volumetric (Dimensional) Weight, whichever is higher. This billable weight ensures carriers are compensated fairly for bulky, lightweight packages that occupy significant cargo hold volume.
Standard Indian & International Divisors
Air Express / Courier (DHL, FedEx, BlueDart):(L × W × H in cm) / 5000
IATA Air Cargo (Commercial Airlines):(L × W × H in cm) / 6000
Road Surface Logistics (Domestic FTL / PTL):(L × W × H in cm) / 4000 or 1 CFT = 10 kg / 27,000 cm³
Ocean Freight (LCL): Charged per CBM (1 CBM = 1,000 kg equivalent for seafreight)
For express domestic/international couriers (BlueDart, FedEx, DHL), the standard divisor is 5000 (cm³/kg). For standard commercial air cargo (IATA airlines), the divisor is typically 6000.
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Road logistics operators (like VRL, TCI, Safechem) commonly use a divisor of 4000 (cm³/kg) or calculate based on Cubic Feet (CFT) where 1 CFT is pegged at 10 kg (i.e. 27000 cm³ = 10 kg).
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If you are shipping large lightweight items (like foam, pillows, empty containers, apparel), the volume occupied in the cargo aircraft or truck is substantial. Carriers charge for the space lost.