When you book an international courier, the price is based on the chargeable weight — the higher of the parcel's actual weight on the scale and its volumetric weight. Aircraft space is limited, so a large but light box costs the airline as much as a heavy one.
The formula
Volumetric weight (kg) = Length × Width × Height (all in cm) ÷ 5,000.
Measure the outside of the box at its widest points, including any bulges. Round each side up to the nearest centimetre.
Worked examples
- Clothes box 50 × 40 × 30 cm, weighs 8 kg → volumetric = 60,000 ÷ 5,000. With a divisor of 5,000 that is 12 kg, so you are charged for 12 kg.
- Sweets and books 40 × 30 × 25 cm, weighs 11 kg → volumetric 6 kg (at 5,000). The box is heavy for its size, so you are charged on the actual 11 kg.
- Two half-empty boxes are almost always more expensive than one full box — each box is measured separately.
Rounding
After the chargeable weight is found, it is rounded up to the next weight step of the rate card (for example to the next 0.5 kg for small parcels). Our rate results always show the chargeable weight used.
Tips to pay less
- Choose a sturdy box that just fits the contents — do not reuse an oversized appliance carton.
- Roll clothes and use them as padding around fragile items.
- Remove bulky retail packaging where it is safe to do so (keep original packing for medicines and electronics).
- Vacuum-seal bedding and jackets.
- Ask us before packing — our pickup executive can suggest the most economical box.
Use the volumetric weight calculator on our rates page to check your box before booking.
Frequently asked questions
What is volumetric weight?
Volumetric (or dimensional) weight reflects how much space a parcel takes in an aircraft. It is calculated from the box size: Length × Width × Height in centimetres divided by 5,000.
Do I pay for actual or volumetric weight?
You pay for the chargeable weight, which is the higher of the two. Heavy, compact boxes are charged on actual weight; light, bulky boxes on volumetric weight.
How can I reduce volumetric weight?
Use the smallest strong box that fits your items, fill gaps with soft clothes instead of air, and send one well-packed box instead of several half-empty ones.