Shipping cost calculator
Volumetric weight, chargeable weight and what the carrier will bill.
How it works
Volumetric weight = (L × W × H in cm) ÷ divisor · Chargeable = the greater of volumetric and actual
Carriers bill on whichever is greater: what the parcel weighs, or the space it occupies. A box of cushions weighing two kilos can be charged as nine. The divisor is the carrier's — 5000 for most European road and express services, 6000 on some air tariffs, and it is on your rate card. If your parcels are consistently charged above their weight, the cheapest saving available is a smaller box.
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Frequently asked questions
- Where do I find the divisor?
- On your carrier's rate card, usually as 'volumetric divisor' or 'dimensional factor'. 5000 is the common European default; a lower number means you are charged more for the same box.
- Should I measure the box or the goods?
- The box, at its widest points, including any bulge. Carriers measure the shipment as presented, and a lid that does not quite close costs real money.
- Does this include surcharges?
- No. Fuel, remote-area, residential and oversize surcharges sit on top and vary by carrier and week. Treat this as the base and add your own typical surcharge percentage.
- How do I cut the cost?
- Reduce the box before you negotiate the rate. Dropping a 40×30×20 box to 35×25×15 takes volumetric weight from 4.8 kg to 2.6 kg — a bigger saving than most rate negotiations produce.