Air freight is billed on chargeable weight – the greater of the actual gross weight and the volumetric (dimensional) weight. If your cargo is light but bulky, the volumetric figure governs and you pay for space rather than mass. Use the calculator below, or read the formula and worked examples.
The Formula
Volumetric weight (kg) = Length (cm) x Width (cm) x Height (cm) / 6000
6,000 is the standard divisor for general air freight under IATA rules. Express couriers commonly use 5,000, which produces a higher chargeable weight, and sea LCL uses a different logic altogether – 1 CBM is treated as 1,000 kg. Always confirm the divisor of the specific channel you are booking.
Chargeable Weight Calculator
Worked Examples
| Shipment | Carton size (cm) | Cartons | Gross weight | Volumetric weight | Chargeable |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Light and bulky | 60 x 50 x 40 | 10 | 150 kg | 200 kg | 200 kg |
| Same cartons, dense cargo | 60 x 50 x 40 | 10 | 240 kg | 200 kg | 240 kg |
| Small and heavy | 40 x 30 x 30 | 4 | 90 kg | 24 kg | 90 kg |
How to Reduce Chargeable Weight
- Shrink the carton, not just the contents. Removing 3 cm of empty headspace from every side cuts volumetric weight dramatically on a 100-carton shipment.
- Split oversized cartons. A single box exceeding the airline’s maximum dimension is charged at the greater dimension; two smaller boxes are often cheaper.
- Vacuum-pack soft goods where the product allows it.
- Compare modes. Above roughly 150-200 kg per CBM density, sea freight is usually the better economic choice; below it, air wins on speed per dollar.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is chargeable weight in air freight?
The weight the airline bills on: the greater of gross weight and volumetric weight (L x W x H in cm / 6000).
Why is the divisor 6000 and not 5000?
6,000 is the IATA standard for general cargo. Express integrators use 5,000, which assumes a lighter cargo profile and results in a higher chargeable weight for the same box.
Do airlines re-measure my cartons?
Yes. Terminals re-measure and re-weigh cargo at acceptance, and the larger figure applies. Accurate measurements at booking prevent invoice surprises.