Volumetric weight calculator
Find the chargeable weight of a shipment for air, express, road and sea freight. Enter the dimensions and the real weight — we compare it with the volumetric weight and show what the carrier is likely to bill.
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What volumetric weight is and why it matters
Carriers sell space as well as lifting capacity. A large, light parcel fills an aircraft hold or a trailer long before it reaches the weight limit, so the price is based on the chargeable weight — the greater of the actual (gross) weight and the volumetric weight, also called dimensional or "dim" weight.
volumetric weight (kg) = volume (m³) × ratio (kg/m³)
chargeable weight = max(actual weight, volumetric weight)
Typical ratios by transport mode
| Mode | Usual ratio | Same as | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air freight | 1:6000 | ≈ 167 kg/m³ | IATA standard: L×W×H in cm ÷ 6000 |
| Express / courier | 1:5000 | 200 kg/m³ | Most integrators; some use 1:4000 |
| Road freight (groupage) | ≈ 333 kg/m³ | 1:3000 | Common, but many carriers price by loading metres instead |
| Sea freight LCL | 1 t = 1 m³ | 1000 kg/m³ | Billed in W/M (revenue tons): the greater of m³ and tonnes |
These are typical market values, not legal rules. Each carrier sets its ratio in its tariff or contract, and road hauliers in Europe often use loading metres (see the loading meter calculator) or their own kg-per-m³ figure.
Worked example
A pallet of 120 × 80 × 150 cm weighing 180 kg has a volume of 1.44 m³.
- Air: 1.44 × 166.67 = 240 kg volumetric → chargeable 240 kg (volume wins).
- Road at 333 kg/m³: 1.44 × 333 = 479.5 kg → chargeable 479.5 kg.
- Sea LCL: 1.44 m³ vs 0.18 t → 1.44 W/M.
Tip: in air freight a density below 167 kg/m³ means you pay for volume. Reducing packaging height or using a smaller box often saves more than reducing weight.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate volumetric weight for air freight?
Multiply length × width × height in centimetres and divide by 6000 (the IATA ratio). For a 60 × 40 × 40 cm box that is 96,000 ÷ 6000 = 16 kg. The airline charges the greater of this and the actual weight, usually rounded up to the next 0.5 kg.
What is the difference between 1:5000 and 1:6000?
The divisor sets how many cubic centimetres count as one kilogram. 1:6000 equals about 167 kg per m³ and is standard for airline cargo; 1:5000 equals 200 kg per m³ and is used by most express couriers, so the same box comes out 20% heavier.
Which ratio is used for road freight?
There is no single legal ratio. 333 kg per m³ (1:3000) is common for groupage, but many European hauliers price by loading metres or set their own conversion such as 250–350 kg per m³. Always check the carrier's tariff.
What does W/M mean in sea freight?
W/M stands for weight or measurement. For LCL shipments the freight is charged per revenue ton, which is the greater of the volume in cubic metres and the weight in metric tonnes (1 t = 1 m³). 2 m³ weighing 800 kg is billed as 2 W/M.
Is chargeable weight the same as gross weight?
Not always. Gross weight is what the cargo really weighs including packaging. Chargeable weight is the figure used for the price: the gross weight or the volumetric weight, whichever is higher.
Can I save these calculations and send quotes to clients?
Yes — in milog you prepare quotes and rate requests, keep everything with the shipment and share tracking with the client. Create a free account: all modules are free for everyone until September 2027.
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