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Logistics
Dimensional Weight
Compare dimensional and actual weight to find chargeable weight.
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Package types
Unit system
Calculator guide
Dimensional and chargeable weight
Light but bulky packages may be billed by dimensional weight instead of scale weight. This calculator evaluates each package line and totals the greater of actual or dimensional weight.
Use outside packed dimensions and the divisor stated in the carrier’s rate agreement. Different services may use different divisors and rounding rules.
Reviewed August 2026 by the DoMyCalc editorial teamHow to use it
- Select metric or imperial display units and the applicable carrier divisor.
- Add each package size with its quantity and actual gross unit weight.
- Compare dimensional, actual and chargeable totals before quoting freight.
Dimensional weight formula
Metric DIM weight (kg) = length × width × height in cm ÷ divisor. Chargeable weight per piece = greater of DIM or actual weight.
Worked example
A 60 × 40 × 35 cm carton has 16.8 kg dimensional weight using divisor 5,000. If actual weight is 12 kg, the chargeable weight is 16.8 kg per carton.
Carrier rules matter
- Use the divisor and rounding rule from the actual tariff.
- Calculate chargeable weight package by package, not only from shipment totals.
- Oversize, handling and minimum-charge rules are not included.
How to read chargeable weight
The calculator chooses the greater of actual and dimensional weight for each line. The difference identifies how much billed weight is caused by occupied space rather than scale weight.
A packaging change can lower chargeable weight even when the product weight stays the same.
Avoid these billing errors
- Using the wrong service divisor
- Combining totals before comparing each package
- Ignoring carrier rounding and oversize surcharges
Confirm in the tariff
- Divisor for the exact service
- Dimension and weight rounding
- Piece-level versus shipment-level comparison
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between DIM and actual weight?
Actual weight is measured on a scale. DIM weight represents the space occupied. Billing commonly uses whichever is greater.
Which divisor should I use?
Use the factor in your carrier agreement. Common metric examples include 5,000 and 6,000, but the correct value can vary.
Why calculate each package separately?
A dense package can offset a light one if totals are combined incorrectly. Carriers usually compare actual and DIM weight for each handling unit.