Volumetric Weight Calculator
What is Volumetric Weight and Why Should You Care?
Have you ever tried to ship a package only to find out that it costs way more than you expected? You might have been charged based on the volumetric weight rather than the actual weight of your parcel. So, what is volumetric weight, and why should you care?
Volumetric weight (sometimes known as dimensional weight) is a pricing method used by shipping companies to account for the size of a package rather than just its weight. Yes, it sounds a bit sneaky, but it makes sense. Imagine trying to ship something light yet bulky, like a huge box of feathers. The shipping company can't fit as many of these boxes in their truck compared to heavy but compact items. So, they use volumetric weight to ensure they’re maximizing their shipping space efficiently.
Understanding how to calculate volumetric weight can help you predict shipping costs more accurately and possibly even save money by using more efficiently packed parcels.
How to Calculate Volumetric Weight
Calculating volumetric weight isn't rocket science. It just requires a simple formula, some measurements, and a calculator. Ready? Here’s how you do it:
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Measure the dimensions of your parcel. You'll need the length, width, and height in inches. If you prefer metric units, measure these dimensions in centimeters.
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Use the formula. Plug the measurements into the formula for volumetric weight:
\[ \text{Volumetric Weight (lbs)} = \frac{\text{Length (in)} \times \text{Width (in)} \times \text{Height (in)}}{138.345} \]For those using metric units, here's the formula:
\[ \text{Volumetric Weight (kg)} = \frac{\text{Length (cm)} \times \text{Width (cm)} \times \text{Height (cm)}}{5000} \] -
Calculate the result. Once you plug in the numbers, divide by 138.345 for imperial units or 5000 for metric units.
Where:
- Volumetric Weight (lbs or kg) is the computed dimensional weight of your parcel.
- Length (in or cm) is the parcel's length.
- Width (in or cm) is the parcel's width.
- Height (in or cm) is the parcel's height.
Calculation Example
Let's walk through this with an example. Suppose you have a parcel that’s 12 inches long, 7 inches wide, and 8 inches tall. How do you figure out the volumetric weight? Follow these steps:
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Measure your parcel dimensions:
- Length: 12 inches
- Width: 7 inches
- Height: 8 inches
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Use the formula:
\[ \text{Volumetric Weight (lbs)} = \frac{\text{Length (in)} \times \text{Width (in)} \times \text{Height (in)}}{138.345} \] -
Plug in the numbers:
\[ \text{Volumetric Weight (lbs)} = \frac{12 \times 7 \times 8}{138.345} \] -
Calculate:
\[ \text{Volumetric Weight (lbs)} = \frac{672}{138.345} \approx 4.86 \text{ lbs} \]
And there you have it! Your parcel's volumetric weight is approximately 4.86 lbs. Most shipping companies will round up to the nearest whole number, so you might be charged for 5 lbs.
Quick Tips for Shipping
- Check before you pack: Always calculate the volumetric weight before closing up the box. You might find that a smaller, more compact packaging solution can save you money.
- Use appropriate packaging: Bulky does not always mean safe! Efficiently use bubble wrap and other packing materials to minimize your parcel dimensions without compromising item safety.
- Consult your carrier: Each shipping company might have slightly different methods or divisor numbers for calculating volumetric weight. Always check with them to avoid surprises.
Understanding and calculating volumetric weight helps you ship smarter, potentially reducing shipping costs and ensuring your parcels arrive safely. Now the next time you are preparing a shipment, you'll be ahead of the game!