While shipping a small, lightweight package, have you been surprised by the high cost? Don’t worry, you are not alone. If you are facing unexpected shipping fees, this is due to a concept called “dimensional weight”. Dimensional weight considers how much space an item takes up in relation to its size, whereas actual weight gauges how heavy it is. This price strategy is used by shipping companies such as FedEx, UPS, and USPS to account for heavy items that occupy valuable cargo space, even if they are light in weight.
In our blog, we will explain the difference between dimensional and actual weight. It will also explain why shippers use this system and how to avoid overpaying for packages.
What is Actual Weight?
- Actual Weight: The physical weight of the package on a scale is its actual weight. This refers to how heavy the package is. It is regardless of its size or shape.
What is Dimensional (DIM) Weight?
- Dimensional (DIM) Weight – A calculated weight based on the space your package occupies in a truck or plane, not just its actual weight. It reflects how much space a package takes up in regard to its weight.
Why Does This Matter?
Carriers like FedEx, UPS, and DHL charge based on the greater of the two weights: actual weight or dimensional weight. So, even a 15-pound package might get billed as 25 pounds if it’s bulky enough.
How is Dimensional Weight Calculated?
The weight is calculated based on the length, width, and height of the package, which is the dimensional weight.
- Measure the package dimensions (Length × Width × Height in inches).
- Multiply those dimensions to get the total cubic inches.
- Divide by the carrier’s DIM divisor (139 for domestic shipping).
- Round up to the nearest whole number.
- Compare to the actual weight.
- You’re billed for the greater of the two.
Real-World Example:
You ship a package that weighs 15 lbs and measures 12” × 18” × 16”.
- Cubic Inches: 12 × 18 × 16 = 3,456
- DIM Weight = 3,456 ÷ 139 = 24.9, rounded to 25 lbs
You’ll be charged for 25 lbs, not the actual 15 lbs.
Why This Matters for Your Business?
If you are not optimizing for your high-volume, lightweight, bulky item,s you are likely paying more than you should.
At nVision Global, we help companies:
- Audit parcel invoices
- Identify DIM weight overcharges
- Optimize packaging
- Negotiate better rates with carriers
Tips for Optimizing Shipment Weight
- Right size packaging: Do not use oversized boxes for small or lightweight items. Many providers charge more for weight than for space, so it’s important to check the size.
- Always calculate: Do calculate both actual and dimensional weight before shipping. Use tools or software to compare and choose the most effective option.
- Bundle the shipment: You should combine items into one shipment, which helps to reduce packaging and shipping frequency.
- Review shipments: Check and analyze past shipments to identify patterns of oversized packaging. Based on the data, make adjustments.
When dealing with lightweight yet bulky items, it is important to understand the difference between dimensional and actual weight to control shipping costs. The providers will charge more, and you will end up paying more than what it actually is if you don’t take into consideration the dimensional charges. By right-sizing your packaging, you will make significant savings. We at nVision Global specialize in helping companies audit parcel invoices, optimize packaging, and negotiate better rates with carriers.
Ready to reduce your small parcel shipping costs?
Let our experts show you how smarter packaging and better negotiation can lead to big savings.
Contact us today or learn more about our Parcel Rate Optimization Services.