Understanding how dimensional weight affects your shipping costs is essential for businesses looking to optimize expenses and avoid unexpected fees. Carriers use dimensional weight pricing to charge based on package size rather than just actual weight, which can lead to higher costs if packages are large but light. This guide explains dimensional weight, how to calculate it, and strategies to save money on shipping.
What Is Dimensional Weight?
Dimensional weight (also called volumetric weight) is a pricing method used by carriers like USPS, UPS, and FedEx that considers the volume of a package in addition to its actual weight. It is calculated by multiplying the package’s length, width, and height and then dividing by a standard divisor. If the dimensional weight exceeds the actual weight, carriers charge based on the dimensional weight.
How to Calculate Dimensional Weight
The formula for dimensional weight (in pounds) is:
(length x width x height) / divisor = dimensional weight
- For domestic shipments, the divisor is typically 139 for inches (used by UPS and FedEx).
- USPS uses a divisor of 166 for Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express.
Example: A box measuring 20 x 15 x 10 inches has a volume of 3,000 cubic inches.
- Dimensional weight = 3,000 / 139 ≈ 21.6 pounds.
If the actual weight of the package is 10 pounds, the carrier charges for 21.6 pounds.
Why Does Dimensional Weight Matter?
Carriers apply dimensional weight pricing to encourage efficient packaging and reduce the space occupied by large but lightweight shipments. This pricing affects your shipping costs and can make a big difference in your expenses.
Tips to Save Money on Dimensional Weight Charges
- Use Right-Sized Packaging: Select boxes that closely fit your product to avoid paying for empty space.
- Choose Lightweight Materials: Use lightweight packaging materials to keep the actual weight low.
- Flatten or Disassemble Products: When possible, ship items flat-packed or disassembled to reduce volume.
- Compare Carrier Divisors: USPS has a higher divisor (166), which can result in lower dimensional weight fees for some packages compared to UPS or FedEx (139).
- Use Regional or Hybrid Carriers: These may offer different pricing structures that can reduce dimensional weight costs.
- Buy Shipping Supplies at Discount: Use platforms like Fluz to purchase discounted shipping supplies or carrier gift cards. You can earn cashback with a UPS gift card or get rewards with a FedEx gift card to save on shipping fees.
In Conclusion
Dimensional weight significantly influences shipping costs, especially for large, lightweight packages. By understanding how it is calculated and adopting strategies like right-sizing packaging and leveraging discounted carrier gift cards through Fluz, businesses can effectively reduce shipping expenses without compromising delivery quality.
