Definition
A notional weight derived from a shipment’s volume, used to charge bulky, low-density cargo fairly.
Volumetric weight converts the space a shipment occupies into an equivalent weight by dividing its volume by a mode-specific factor — for air freight, typically 6,000 cm³ per kg (or volume in CBM × 167). It exists so carriers can price cargo that fills space without weighing much.
The volumetric figure is compared with actual weight to set the chargeable weight. Denser packing lowers volumetric weight and therefore cost, which is why optimizing carton sizes matters for bulky goods.
Related terms
Chargeable Weight
The weight freight is billed on — the greater of actual gross weight and volumetric weight.
Gross Weight
The total weight of the cargo including its packaging, pallets, and any container or unit load device.
CBM (Cubic Metre)
The volume of cargo in cubic metres — length × width × height in metres — used to price freight.
Air Freight
The transport of goods by aircraft — fast and reliable, but the most expensive mode per kilogram.
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