Dimensional Weight

Dimensional weight, also called "dim" weight, is a pricing technique used in courier and freight shipping to determine the cubic size of a package. Upon courier invoicing, the entered weight is compared to the dimensional weight; the value that is greater will be invoiced.

Dimensional weight is the amount of space a package occupies in relation to its actual weight. For each shipment, you are charged based on the dimensional weight or actual weight of the package—whichever is greater.

Dimensional Weight Calculation

The calculation for dimensional weight slightly varies for each courier as the divisional weight may vary. ShipSimple uses a general calculation for pounds and kilograms that is located on the first stage when creating a new shipment.  

ShipSimple Dimensional Weight Calculations

Calculation in Pounds (lb): This is when the dimension units are in inches (in).

Dim weight = (L x W x H)/139 

Calculation in Kilograms (kg): This is when the dimension units are in centimeters (cm).

Dim weight = (L x W x H)/5000

Example

If you have a 20lb box of painted rocks and a 20lb box of sleeping pillows...do you think the courier should charge the same price? Do you think these boxes are the same size?  Rocks are billed at weight, but the box of pillows must be billed at the dimensional weight which is why reconciliation exists. The amount of space occupied will always play a factor in cost.

If you have any questions, please contact us by email at [e-mail], by phone at 1-888-210-8910, or contact us via live chat directly on the ShipSimple Platform.