Key takeaways
- Air freight is charged on the greater of actual and volumetric weight.
- A common volumetric factor is 6,000 cm³ per kg (about 167 kg per cubic metre).
- Packing smaller reduces cost on light, bulky cargo.
How it's calculated
Volumetric weight (kg) = length × width × height in cm ÷ 6,000 — the factor most airlines use, though some carriers apply others. Compare it with the actual weight; the higher figure is the chargeable weight.
Two examples
| Cargo | Actual | Volumetric | Chargeable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spare part box 50×40×30 cm, 25 kg | 25 kg | 10 kg | 25 kg |
| Light carton 100×80×60 cm, 20 kg | 20 kg | 80 kg | 80 kg |
Reducing cost
- Use the smallest strong packaging
- Avoid oversized pallets for light items
- Consider sea freight when time allows
Frequently asked questions
Is the volumetric factor always 6,000?
It is the most common for air freight, but carriers and couriers may use different factors. Confirm on your quote.