Airlines don't just charge by actual weight. When cargo is large but light, the space it occupies on the aircraft costs more than its weight suggests. That's why air freight is priced on chargeable weight — whichever is greater between the actual weight and the volumetric (dimensional) weight.
Use this calculator to instantly find out what you'll actually be charged for.
Volumetric weight
14.40
Volume
0.0720
Chargeable weight
14.40
Formula: (L × W × H) ÷ 5,000 = volumetric weight (kg) · IATA standard divisor for air freight
How to Use This Calculator
Enter the dimensions of your package or pallet in centimetres, metres, or inches. If you have multiple packages, calculate each one separately and use the largest chargeable weight figure for your quote.
If you know the actual weight of your shipment, enter it in the actual weight field. The calculator will automatically show you the chargeable weight — whichever is greater between volumetric and actual.
Understanding Volumetric Weight
The volumetric weight formula — (Length × Width × Height) ÷ 5,000 — is the IATA industry standard for air freight. The divisor of 5,000 is used when dimensions are in centimetres and the result is in kilograms.
The logic is straightforward: aircraft have limited space. A shipment of inflatable furniture might weigh almost nothing but fill half a cargo hold. The volumetric weight system ensures the airline is compensated for the space used, not just the weight carried.
| Example Cargo | Dimensions (cm) | Actual Weight | Vol. Weight | Chargeable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electronics box | 60 × 40 × 30 | 18 kg | 14.4 kg | 18 kg |
| Lightweight packaging | 80 × 60 × 50 | 8 kg | 48 kg | 48 kg |
| Dense machinery part | 40 × 30 × 20 | 35 kg | 4.8 kg | 35 kg |
How to Reduce Your Chargeable Weight
If your volumetric weight is consistently higher than actual weight, there are practical steps you can take to reduce your air freight costs:
- Right-size your packaging — Remove unnecessary void fill and use boxes that fit your product as closely as possible
- Consolidate shipments — Combining multiple smaller boxes into one larger shipment often reduces the total volumetric weight
- Consider sea freight — For bulky, non-urgent cargo, sea freight is priced on CBM and is significantly cheaper for low-density goods
- Ask your supplier to repack — Chinese manufacturers often over-package for domestic transit. Repacking for air export can cut volumetric weight significantly
Before booking your shipment, send us your dimensions and weights. Our team will advise whether air freight, deferred air, or sea freight is most cost-effective for your specific cargo — at no obligation.
Sea Freight: A Different Formula
Sea freight uses a different pricing model. Container shipments (FCL) are priced per container regardless of weight. Groupage shipments (LCL) are priced per CBM or per tonne — again, whichever is greater. The CBM figure from this calculator applies directly to LCL sea freight quotes.
Get an Accurate Freight Quote
Enter your dimensions above, then send us the chargeable weight. We'll give you a competitive air freight rate within 24 hours — no hidden fees, no excuses.
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