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      How to calculate Dimensional Weight

      The dimensional weight is the actual cost of the package based on the rated weight. The Rated weight is calculated based on the l x w x h divided by a factor called the dimensional factor (or dim divisor).

      The term "weight" is a little misleading. A package's density, or how much room it will take up on a carrier's freight vehicle or airplane, is reflected by its dimensional weight (dim weight). You can think of it as a theoretical weight because it represents how much a package ought to or might weigh in relation to its size.

      To calculate a package's dimensional weight:

      1. Measure the package. Because carriers want the dimensions of length, width, and height to reflect the package's size at its extremes, keep in mind that the sizes stated by a box manufacturer may not apply. 
      2. By multiplying length, breadth, and height, you may calculate the cubic size.
      3. Divide by the dimensional factor (dim divisor). For domestic ground shipments, the value of the dim divisor varies by carrier, but common divisors are 139 and 166. For international air shipments, divide the cubic size by 139. Dim divisors are subject to change, so be sure to check out the information from carriers for updates.
      4. Round up. The nearest whole number will be rounded up by carriers, so you should too.

      For example:

      Say you're using UPS ground service to send a package. Your box measures 24″ x 18″ x 18″ and the parcel weighs 50 lbs. 

      1. You must multiply 24 by 18 by 18 to determine the cubic size. That results in 7,776 cubic inches.
      2. The applicable dim divisor is 139 because you're shipping ground and the shipment is over 1,728 cubic inches (specific to UPS).
      3. Dim weight = 7,776 / 139. The result is 55.9 lbs.
      4. 55.9 lbs. and can be rounded up to 56 lbs.

      The dim weight (56 lbs.) will be used in calculating the shipping costs because it is greater than the actual weight (50 lbs.).

      Let's assume that something weighing 65 lbs is being shipped in the same size box. The actual weight of 65 lbs. is found to be more than the dim weight, so the actual weight of 65 lbs. will be the billable weight.