Are you facing unexpected shipping charges? Understanding dimensional weight can help you optimize your shipping rates effectively. Here’s a step-by-step guide to calculate dimensional weight and ensure cost-efficient parcel delivery:
1. Determine the Actual Weight #
Start by weighing your package accurately using a scale. Round up any fraction to the next whole pound or kilogram for precise measurements.
2. Calculate Dimensional Weight #
Measure the package dimensions in inches or centimeters, rounding each measurement to the nearest whole number. Include any bulges or irregular shapes in your measurements. Multiply the length, width, and height to find the cubic size in inches or centimeters.
3. Dimensional Weight Calculation #
- For Domestic and Export Shipments: Divide the cubic size by 139 (in inches) or 5,000 (in centimeters). Round up any fraction to the next whole number.
- For UPS Standard Shipments: Divide the cubic size by 166 (in inches) or 6,000 (in centimeters). Round up any fraction to the next whole number.
- For Import Shipments: Use the same calculation as for domestic and export shipments.
4. Determine the Billable Weight #
Compare the package’s actual weight with its dimensional weight. The greater of the two is the billable weight used to calculate the shipping rate.
5. Multiple Package Shipments #
For shipments measured in pounds, sum up the billable weight of all packages. For kilograms, round up the fractional actual weight and dimensional weight of each package to the next half kilogram. Add the greater of the two to determine the total billable weight. Round up to the next whole kilogram if the total ends in a half kilogram.
6. Large Package Considerations #
- A Large Package Surcharge may apply to domestic and international shipments when the length plus girth exceeds 130 inches / 330 centimeters.
- Large Packages are subject to a minimum billable weight of 90 pounds / 41 kilograms.
- No Additional Handling charge is assessed when a Large Package Surcharge is applied.
Additional Tips: #
- Box manufacturer size limits may not reflect the actual dimensions of a package. Measure accurately to avoid discrepancies.
- Improper packaging can alter a package’s dimensions during transit, affecting dimensional weight and resulting in shipping charge corrections.
Understanding dimensional weight is crucial for optimizing shipping rates and avoiding unexpected charges. Follow these guidelines to ensure cost-efficient parcel delivery for your shipments.
