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Air volumetric weight calculator.

In air freight you pay for the greater of the actual weight and the volumetric weight. The volumetric weight is length × width × height in cm divided by 6,000.

Units:
In cm³ per kg. Dimensions in inches are converted to centimetres first.
Chargeable weight— kgVolumetric weight: —Actual weight: —

How it is calculated

The volumetric weight is calculated and compared with the actual weight; the greater of the two is billed:

Volumetric weight (kg) = length × width × height (cm) ÷ 6,000
Chargeable weight = the greater of the actual weight and the volumetric weight

For example, a piece of 120 × 80 × 100 cm weighing 120 kg has a volumetric weight of 960,000 ÷ 6,000 = 160 kg. As 160 kg is more than 120 kg, the chargeable weight is 160 kg (about 353 lb).

Express courier services usually use 5,000; confirm the divisor with your carrier.

In imperial units, the calculator converts the inches to centimetres (1 in = 2.54 cm) and the pounds to kilograms (1 lb = 0.45359237 kg), applies the same rule in cm³ and kg, and shows the result in pounds, with the kilograms below.

More examples, the case of pallets and rounding, in the air chargeable weight guide.

What this calculator does not check

Whether the piece fits in the aircraft or in the planned ULD, the maximum weight of the air pallet, how your airline rounds, or the rate: the price depends on your airline or your freight forwarder.

Validate your load before it ships.

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Questions about chargeable weight

What is chargeable weight?

The weight an air shipment is billed for: the greater of the actual weight and the volumetric weight. That way, a light but bulky load pays for the space it takes up. Air chargeable weight guide

Why 6,000?

It is the criterion of the IATA TACT rules for air cargo: 6,000 cm³ count as 1 kg, about 166.67 kg per cubic metre. Each airline applies it in its rates and conditions.

Courier or air cargo?

Express courier services usually use another divisor, often 5,000, which gives a higher volumetric weight. Always confirm it with your carrier before booking.

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