Calculo De Peso Volumetrico Aereo

When shipping goods by air, carriers often use volumetric weight to determine shipping costs rather than the actual weight of the package. This calculator helps you determine the correct volumetric weight for your air freight shipments.

What is Volumetric Weight?

Volumetric weight is a method used by air freight carriers to calculate the density of a package. It's calculated by multiplying the package's length, width, and height (in centimeters) and then dividing by a divisor (usually 5000 or 6000).

The result is expressed in kilograms, and the higher the volumetric weight compared to the actual weight, the more expensive the shipment will be.

Formula

Volumetric Weight = (Length × Width × Height) ÷ Divisor

Where:

Length, Width, Height are in centimeters
Divisor is typically 5000 or 6000 (varies by carrier)

For example, a package with dimensions 50cm × 30cm × 20cm would have a volumetric weight of:

Example Calculation

(50 × 30 × 20) ÷ 5000 = 300 kg

How to Calculate Volumetric Weight

To calculate volumetric weight:

Measure the length, width, and height of your package in centimeters
Multiply these three dimensions together
Divide the result by the carrier's specified divisor (usually 5000 or 6000)
Compare the volumetric weight to the actual weight of your package

The carrier will charge based on the higher of the two values: the actual weight or the volumetric weight.

Note: Different carriers may use different divisors. Always check with your specific air freight provider for their exact calculation method.

Why is Volumetric Weight Used?

Air freight carriers use volumetric weight because it helps them:

Standardize pricing regardless of package composition
Account for the space a package occupies in the cargo hold
Prevent customers from shipping low-density items that would be expensive to transport

For example, a package of feathers might weigh very little but occupy a large volume, resulting in a high volumetric weight and potentially expensive shipping costs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When calculating volumetric weight, be aware of these common errors:

Using incorrect dimensions - always measure the outside dimensions of the package
Using the wrong divisor - check with your carrier for their specific calculation method
Ignoring the actual weight - the carrier will always use the higher of the two values
Not accounting for packaging materials - include the weight of the box in your actual weight calculation

To avoid overpaying, always compare the volumetric weight to your actual package weight and choose the higher value when calculating shipping costs.

FAQ

What is the difference between actual weight and volumetric weight?

Actual weight is the physical weight of your package, while volumetric weight is calculated based on the package's dimensions. Carriers use whichever value is higher to determine shipping costs.

Why do some carriers use 5000 and others use 6000 as the divisor?

The divisor varies by carrier and is based on their specific pricing models. Always check with your air freight provider for their exact calculation method.

Can I reduce my shipping costs by adjusting my package dimensions?

Yes, if your package has low actual weight but occupies a large volume, you can potentially reduce costs by using more efficient packaging that minimizes empty space.

Is volumetric weight used for all air freight shipments?

Yes, volumetric weight is a standard practice in air freight to ensure fair pricing regardless of package composition.

What should I do if I'm unsure about the correct divisor to use?

Always contact your air freight carrier directly for their specific volumetric weight calculation method.