How to Calculate Dimensional Weight Pricing | Dimensional Weight Explained

Virginia Miller

July 21, 2024

In this article

Have you ever wondered how dimensional weight pricing works? It can be confusing to understand, but with this guide, you'll have all the information you need to calculate it yourself. dimensional weight pricing is a system used by shipping companies to determine the cost of shipping a package. The price is based on the size of the package compared to its weight. This guide will explain how to calculate dimensional weight and show some examples so that you can better understand how it works.

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You've done a lot of hard work to get online sales. Now it's time to think about shipping. As you may have realized, fulfilling orders isn't always as simple as placing the product in a box and mailing it off. For online sellers that want to maximize profit, you need a good shipping strategy.

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First, let's discuss how shipping companies decide how much you will pay for shipping.

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How Dimensional Weight Impacts Shipping Costs

When shipping goods, the cost is determined by two factors: the actual weight and the dimensional weight. For small, lightweight packages that take up a lot of space, dimensional weight charges are higher than for packages with greater actual weights.

To calculate dimensional weight:

Measure the length, width, and height of the package in inches
Multiply the dimensions together to get the cubic size
Divide the cubic size by the carrier's dimensional factor (such as 166 for UPS)
Round up to the next whole number

This dim weight is used, along with the actual weight, to calculate shipping costs. Generally, if the dimensional weight is higher than the actual weight, you'll pay shipping based on the dimensional weight.

Why Dimensional Weight Matters

Dimensional weight helps carriers account for packages that take up more space relative to their actual weight. Without it, light but bulky packages would be undercharged compared to dense packages with the same dimensions. It encourages efficient packaging that maximizes space.

Knowing both weights for your packages helps minimize shipping costs. You can optimize package size and shape to avoid dimensional weight charges when possible.

Tips for Lower Dimensional Weight

Use smaller boxes when adequate
Remove excess packaging material
Consolidate multiple items into one box when possible

While dimensional weight adds complexity, understanding how it works helps get the best shipping rates.

Use our dimensional weight calculator to optimize packaging.

Conclusion

Dimensional weight can be confusing but is important for calculating shipping costs accurately. Proper packaging optimization can reduce dimensional weight charges.

For help with order fulfillment, contact Simpl. We offer solutions to fit your shipping needs and budget.

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FAQs

What is dimensional weight?

Dimensional weight is a volumetric measurement used along with actual weight to calculate shipping charges. It factors in the amount of space a package occupies.

When does dimensional weight apply?

If a package's dimensional weight exceeds its actual weight, carriers will charge shipping based on the dimensional weight.

How is dimensional weight calculated?

Multiply the package length x width x height in inches, then divide by the carrier's dimensional factor (such as 166 for UPS). Round up to the next whole number.

Why do carriers use dimensional weight?

It helps them account for large or oddly-shaped packages taking up more space and resources to ship relative to their actual weight.

How can I reduce dimensional weight charges?

Use properly sized boxes, consolidate items, and remove excess packaging materials to optimize package density.

Should I calculate dimensional weight myself?

Yes, calculating it for your packages helps minimize shipping costs by catching excessive dimensional weights before checkout.

What resources help manage dimensional weight?

Use a dimensional weight calculator and packaging optimization tools to find the best box sizes, packing methods, and item groupings.

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