Volumetric Weight Explained
Volumetric weight affects shipping prices for large but lightweight parcels. Understanding it helps you avoid surprises when choosing a courier.
What is volumetric weight?
Volumetric (or dimensional) weight reflects how much space a parcel takes up, rather than how much it weighs. Couriers use it to ensure large parcels pay a fair share of transport costs.
Why couriers use volumetric weight
Delivery vehicles and aircraft have limited space. A large, lightweight box can prevent other parcels from being loaded, even if it doesn’t weigh much.
How volumetric weight is calculated
The typical formula is:
(length × width × height) ÷ divisor
The divisor varies by courier (commonly 5,000 for centimetres). The higher of actual weight or volumetric weight is used for pricing.
Example
A parcel weighing 2kg but measuring 60 × 40 × 40cm:
(60 × 40 × 40) ÷ 5000 = 19.2kg
In this case, shipping is priced closer to 19kg rather than 2kg.
How to avoid surprises
- Enter dimensions when running a quote
- Use smaller boxes where possible
- Remove unnecessary packaging
PostUK’s Quick Quote tool allows you to include dimensions so prices reflect volumetric weight where applicable.
Estimate Shipping Accurately
Use Quick Quote to include dimensions and see accurate shipping options before you buy.