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Como Calcular Peso Volumetrico Fedex

Reviewed by Calculator Editorial Team

Calculating volumetric weight is essential for shipping packages with FedEx. This method helps determine the correct shipping rate based on the package's dimensions rather than its actual weight. Understanding how to calculate volumetric weight ensures you get accurate shipping quotes and avoid overpaying.

What is volumetric weight?

Volumetric weight is a method used by shipping carriers to calculate the weight of a package based on its dimensions. This is particularly useful for large, lightweight packages that might be underweight for their size. Instead of charging based on the actual weight, carriers charge based on the volumetric weight, which is calculated by multiplying the package's length, width, and height, then dividing by a divisor specific to the carrier.

For FedEx, the divisor is 5,000 (for cubic inches) or 6,000 (for cubic centimeters). The higher of the two weights (actual weight or volumetric weight) is used to determine the shipping cost.

FedEx volumetric formula

The formula for calculating FedEx volumetric weight is straightforward. You multiply the length, width, and height of the package (in inches or centimeters) and then divide by the carrier's divisor.

Formula

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

Where Divisor is 5,000 for cubic inches or 6,000 for cubic centimeters.

For example, if you have a package that is 10 inches long, 8 inches wide, and 6 inches tall, the volumetric weight would be calculated as follows:

Example Calculation

Volumetric Weight = (10 × 8 × 6) ÷ 5,000 = 480 ÷ 5,000 = 0.096 pounds

How to calculate volumetric weight for FedEx

Calculating volumetric weight for FedEx involves a few simple steps:

  1. Measure the length, width, and height of your package in inches or centimeters.
  2. Multiply the three dimensions together to get the cubic volume.
  3. Divide the cubic volume by the appropriate divisor (5,000 for inches, 6,000 for centimeters).
  4. Compare the volumetric weight to the actual weight of the package. The higher of the two weights determines the shipping cost.

Using our calculator above, you can quickly and accurately determine the volumetric weight of your package.

Example calculation

Let's walk through an example to illustrate how to calculate volumetric weight. Suppose you have a package with the following dimensions:

  • Length: 12 inches
  • Width: 10 inches
  • Height: 8 inches

First, calculate the cubic volume:

Cubic Volume = 12 × 10 × 8 = 960 cubic inches

Next, divide by the divisor (5,000 for inches):

Volumetric Weight = 960 ÷ 5,000 = 0.192 pounds

If the actual weight of the package is 0.5 pounds, the shipping cost will be based on the higher of the two weights, which in this case is 0.5 pounds.

Comparison table

Here's a comparison table showing how different package dimensions affect the volumetric weight:

Length (in) Width (in) Height (in) Volumetric Weight (lbs)
10 8 6 0.096
12 10 8 0.192
15 12 10 0.300
20 15 10 0.600

FAQ

What is the difference between actual weight and volumetric weight?

Actual weight is the physical weight of the package, while volumetric weight is calculated based on the package's dimensions. Shipping carriers use the higher of the two weights to determine the shipping cost.

Why do shipping carriers use volumetric weight?

Shipping carriers use volumetric weight to ensure that large, lightweight packages are not undercharged. This method helps prevent packages from being damaged during transit due to being underpacked.

How do I know if my package qualifies for volumetric weight?

Your package qualifies for volumetric weight if the calculated volumetric weight is higher than the actual weight. The shipping carrier will use the higher of the two weights to determine the shipping cost.