The formula
Chargeable weight = the greater of actual and volumetric weight (usually rounded up to the next 0.5 kg)
Aircraft run out of space before they run out of weight capacity, so large, light parcels are charged for the space they take up. That is why light, bulky goods such as cotton, cushions and clothing often have a volumetric weight well above their actual weight.
Divisor 5000 vs 6000
| Divisor | Commonly used by | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| 5000 | Express couriers such as DHL Express | Higher volumetric weight |
| 6000 | Forwarders, general air cargo, some freight agents | About 17% lower for the same box |
The divisor can differ by service or contract even within one company. When you get a quote, always ask which divisor applies.
Worked example: 40 × 30 × 25 cm, actual weight 3 kg
| Item | ÷6000 | ÷5000 |
|---|---|---|
| Volume (40 × 30 × 25) | 30,000 cm³ | 30,000 cm³ |
| Volumetric weight | 5.0 kg | 6.0 kg |
| Actual weight | 3.0 kg | 3.0 kg |
| Chargeable weight | 5.0 kg | 6.0 kg |
The parcel weighs 3 kg but is billed at 5 to 6 kg. Shrink the box to 35 × 30 × 20 cm and the volumetric weight drops to 3.5 kg (÷6000), a big saving.
Work it out with the volumetric weight calculator →
CBM: the unit for sea and bulk freight
Sea LCL and bulk imports are often priced by volume (CBM) rather than weight.
One 40 × 30 × 25 cm box = 0.03 CBM; 30 of them ≈ 0.9 CBM
When importing by the carton, as with 1688 sourcing, check both the per-CBM rate and the minimum CBM in your forwarder’s quote. The full landed cost is covered in the 1688 import cost guide.
Korean domestic couriers
Domestic couriers in Korea usually skip the divisor and grade parcels by the sum of the three sides (length + width + height) and weight, into sizes such as extra-small, small, medium and large. The higher of the two grades often applies, and maximum size and weight differ by courier, so check your contracted courier’s rate card. The principle is the same: one size smaller box can drop a grade.
Packing tips to cut shipping costs
- Fit the box to the product: empty space is money. Keep a few standard box sizes on hand.
- Use poly mailers for clothing and textiles: a bag instead of a box cuts volume sharply.
- Measure at the widest point: carriers measure bulges too. Tape the parcel flat.
- Ask your forwarder to repack or consolidate: if the store’s original box is oversized, repacking can shrink it.
- Keep a scale and tape measure: weighing and measuring before dispatch avoids billing disputes.
FAQ
What if the volumetric weight is lower than the actual weight?
Then you are billed on actual weight. The greater of the two always applies.
How are decimals handled?
Most carriers round up to the next 0.5 kg: 5.1 kg is billed as 5.5 kg and 5.6 kg as 6 kg. Some round up to the next full kg.
What about inches and pounds?
US carriers use divisors such as 139 (cubic inches ÷ 139 = pounds). Converted to centimetres and kilograms this is almost the same as ÷5000.
Calculate volumetric weight → Add shipping to your margin →
As of 2026-10-10 · Sources: DHL Express, volumetric weight, rate pages of major forwarding services. Actual charges depend on the carrier and your contract, so go by your quote.