Air freight pricing commonly compares actual gross weight with a calculated volume weight. The carrier’s applicable conversion factor and rounding rules determine chargeable weight.
Measure the outer package
Include pallets, protrusions and protective packaging in your dimensions. The aircraft holds the packed shipment rather than the product inside it. Record each package separately when sizes differ. A rough estimate can be useful for budget planning but should not be the final basis of a booking. Ask whether the carrier has minimum charges or restrictions for the chosen route.
Understand the calculation
A commonly used illustration divides cubic centimetres by 6,000 to obtain kilograms of volume weight. For a 100 × 80 × 60 cm package, this gives 80 kg. If actual gross weight is 50 kg, the illustration uses 80 kg before any carrier-specific rounding. Confirm the actual divisor and tariff with the provider; an illustration is not a carrier rate promise.
Improve packing thoughtfully
Reducing unused package space can reduce volume weight, but cargo protection remains essential. Evaluate packaging options with the supplier rather than compressing vulnerable products to meet a price target. For repeated shipments, record actual final measurements and compare packaging designs. Request a quotation that separates freight, screening, handling, documentation and destination delivery so weight is not the only cost you evaluate.
Your shipment checklist
- Measure each packed piece.
- Confirm the carrier’s divisor and rounding rules.
- Compare gross and volume weight.
- Review minimums and non-freight charges.
Is the 6,000 divisor universal?
No. It is a common air-freight illustration. Applicable factors depend on the carrier, service and tariff; express parcel services may use different factors.
This guide supports shipment planning. The accepted quote, carrier requirements and applicable authority rules determine your shipment’s final arrangements.
