Use this free volumetric weight calculator to see what an airline or courier will actually charge you for. Enter your package sizes and weights. You get the volumetric weight and the chargeable weight for both standard air cargo (divisor 6,000) and express couriers (divisor 5,000).
How to use the volumetric weight calculator
- Choose centimetres or inches, and kilograms or pounds.
- Enter the outer size of one package, the number of pieces and the weight of each.
- Add a line for each different package size.
- Compare the air cargo and courier chargeable weights. The higher of actual and volumetric weight is what you pay for.
How is volumetric weight calculated?
Volumetric weight (kg) = length × width × height (cm) ÷ 6,000 for air cargo. Most express couriers divide by 5,000, which makes light, bulky parcels more expensive.
Example: 5 cartons of 50 × 40 × 40 cm, 10 kg each. Volumetric weight is 66.7 kg, actual weight is 50 kg, so you are charged for 67 kg by air cargo, or 80 kg by courier.
What is chargeable weight?
Chargeable weight is the higher of the actual gross weight and the volumetric weight, usually rounded up to the next 0.5 kg. It is the figure your freight rate is multiplied by.
How can I lower my chargeable weight?
- Use the smallest carton that protects the goods
- Avoid palletising light cargo when loose cartons are cheaper
- Ship larger, non-urgent loads by sea instead
Related guides
- How is air freight chargeable weight calculated?
- How long does shipping from China take?
- CBM calculator
Last reviewed October 2026. Results are estimates based on the figures you enter, not quotes.