Dimensional Weight Calculator
Learn about dim weight, dimensions, cubic size, & large packages
Learn about Dimensional Weight
If your package has a large size-to-weight ratio, you may need to consider your package's dimensional weight when you calculate your shipping rates.
Determining which weight to use in calculating your rate requires that you determine if DIM weight becomes the chargeable weight. Different rules apply depending on the service selected. Dimensional weight considers density, which is the amount of space a package occupies in relation to its actual weight, to determine billable weight. Calculations of dimensional weight are based on the International Air Transport Association (IATA) volumetric standards (subject to change without notice).
Domestic Dim Factor: 194
International Dim Factor: 166
Ground Dim factors may vary depending on product
Packages that exceed PLC weight and size limits are not accepted for transportation. If found in the PLC system, they are subject to an Over Maximum Limits charge.
How To Measure the Cubic Size of Your Package
Calculate the cubic size of your package by multiplying the height in inches, by the length in inches by the width in inches. Round up any fraction measurement to the nearest whole inch. The resulting total is the cubic size of your package.
Calculating Dimensional Weight for Domestic Shipments
- If you have more than one package to be shipped, consider each package a separate shipment for weight calculation purposes.
- Group like-size packages before making your calculation.
Example: 30 cartons of 29" x 17" x 15" = 221,850 cubic inches divided by 194 = 1144 lbs. of chargeable weight. The greater of two weights apply between tender weight and dimensional weight.
Determine Billable Weight: Compare each package’s actual weight to its dimensional weight. The larger of the two weights is the billable weight and should be used to calculate the rate.
Individual tariff notes within a contract may supersede any of the aforementioned.
Large Package Conditions
Service may vary when lift is not available for a given consignment due to carrier weight restrictions, carrier density restrictions, cargo door size, kind of aircraft or truck available, handling equipment, specific carrier regulations or carrier flight schedules.
The shipper must call PLC to arrange service for shipments with any individual piece that exceeds 120 inches in length, width, and height combined or where any one dimension exceeds 55 inches.