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An aircraft or a container is limited by space as much as by weight. Carriers therefore charge the higher of the actual weight and a “volumetric weight” calculated from the dimensions: this is the chargeable weight.
Common formulas
| Mode | Usual calculation | Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Air | Length × width × height (cm) ÷ 6,000 | 1 m³ ≈ 167 kg |
| Express | Length × width × height (cm) ÷ 5,000 | 1 m³ = 200 kg |
| Sea (groupage) | The higher of the volume in m³ and the weight in tonnes | 1 m³ = 1,000 kg |
| Road (groupage) | Varies by carrier | often 1 m³ = 250 to 333 kg |
Example
A 60 × 40 × 40 cm box weighs 8 kg on the scale. By air, its volumetric weight is 60 × 40 × 40 ÷ 6,000 = 16 kg. The chargeable weight is therefore 16 kg, twice the actual weight.
Reducing the chargeable weight
- Choose the smallest box that still allows proper cushioning.
- Group several small parcels into a single shipment whenever possible.
- For bulky, non-urgent goods, sea freight is often far cheaper.
- Round up to the next centimetre and give exact dimensions: an error leads to an invoice adjustment.
General information given for guidance only: exact rules depend on the countries, carriers and goods. For your specific case, contact our teams.