How do I calculate volumetric weight?

Use the formula: Volumetric Weight (kg) = (Length × Width × Height) ÷ Divisor. Enter dimensions in centimeters or inches (auto-converted) and choose the divisor used by your courier, typically 5000 or 6000.

Why do couriers divide by 5000 or 6000?

Different networks use different dimensional factors to balance space and weight. Many Indian marketplaces use 5000 for air/express, while some international and surface services use 6000.

Does this calculator support inches and centimeters?

Yes. Toggle between centimeters and inches; inches are converted to centimeters automatically before computing.

Volumetric Weight Calculator Guide

Volumetric Weight Explained

When shipping products, courier companies use a method called volumetric weight. This helps them charge fairly when a package is big but not very heavy.Our volumetric weight calculator will help you to calculate your package weight.In this guide, we explain how to calculate volumetric weight, why companies divide by 5000 or 6000, and the formula you need to remember.

Units

Courier / Marketplace Divisor

Volumetric Weight (kg) = (L × W × H) ÷ Divisor (when L/W/H in cm). For inches, we convert automatically.

Length

Width

Height

Actual Weight (kg)

Quantity

Volumetric Weight / Piece

0.00 kg

Using divisor 5000

Chargeable Weight / Piece

0.00 kg

Higher of actual vs volumetric

Total Chargeable Weight

0.00 kg

Quantity × Chargeable / piece

Tips & Notes

• Marketplaces/couriers may round up to the next 0.5 kg or 1 kg slab.
• Typical divisors in India: 5000 (common), 6000 (some surface/int’l). Always confirm with your rate card.
• Formula (cm): (L × W × H) / Divisor. For inches we convert to cm first (1 in = 2.54 cm).
• This volumetric weight calculator is for guidance only. Final billing depends on courier scans/policies.

What is Volumetric Weight?

Volumetric weight is the space a package takes compared to its actual weight. For example, a big box of cotton is light in weight but takes up a lot of space in the delivery truck. To balance cost, courier companies use volumetric weight.

Importance of Volumetric Weight for E-Commerce Business

For online sellers, understanding volumetric weight is very important. It helps you know how much you will pay for shipping. If your product is light but large, you may pay more because of the space it takes. By learning how volumetric weight works, you can save money and choose better packaging.

Saving money on shipping fees is possible if you:

Choose the right box size for your products.
Avoid packing with too much empty space.
Compare couriers like Amazon, Ekart, Delhivery, and DHL to see which gives the best rates.

How Do You Calculate Volumetric Weight?

The simple formula is:

Volumetric Weight (kg) = (Length × Width × Height) / Divisor

Use cm for length, width, and height.
Common divisors are 5000 or 6000.

Why Do We Divide by 5000?

Some courier companies, like those in India or Amazon shipping, use 5000. This means the package’s space is divided by 5000 to get the weight in kg. It usually makes shipping charges higher for large but light packages.

Why is Volumetric Weight Divided by 6000?

Global couriers like DHL and FedEx often use 6000. This divisor is set by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). It gives a fairer balance between weight and space when shipping internationally.

What is the Volumetric Formula?

The volumetric formula is simple:

In cm: (L × W × H) / 5000 or 6000
In inches: (L × W × H) / 305

Always check your courier’s rules. Amazon, Ekart, Delhivery, and DHL may have different divisors.

Examples

Example 1: A box is 40 cm × 30 cm × 20 cm. The calculation is:

(40 × 30 × 20) / 5000 = 4.8 kg (volumetric weight)

Example 2: A box is 50 cm × 40 cm × 40 cm. The calculation is:

(50 × 40 × 40) / 6000 = 13.3 kg (volumetric weight)

Why is This Important?

You can predict shipping costs better.
It helps you choose the right courier.
It avoids surprises when selling online.

Volumetric Weight in India

In India, couriers like Amazon, Ekart, and Delhivery follow divisors like 5000. Always confirm with your courier, as rules may change.

Practical Tips to Save on Shipping

Use smaller boxes that fit your items well.
Avoid using too much bubble wrap or filler that increases box size.
Try compressing soft items like clothes to reduce space.
Check both actual weight and volumetric weight before shipping.
Use courier calculators like Amazon, DHL, Ekart, and Delhivery to compare charges.

Conclusion

Volumetric weight is key in e-commerce shipping. Remember the formula: (L × W × H) / 5000 or 6000. Check if your courier uses cm or inches. By knowing this, you can plan shipping charges better and save money in your business. If you want to learn Amazon India business join 3 days training