Chargeable Weight

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What is Chargeable Weight?

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Chargeable Weight = Volumetric Weight vs Gross Weight, whichever is greater.

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How do you calculate Volumetric Weight?

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Volumetric Weight = (length x width x height ) ÷ dimension factor*

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*Dimensional Factor is a certain set number. For traditional air freight, it is 6000, and for express couriers (FedEx, DHL, UPS,etc) it is 5000.

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Here's an example using our formula 🙋:

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Let’s say you are planning to ship 1 carton from Thailand to the US by air.

Carton dimensions = 75 cm x 45 cm x 30cm
Carton weight (per carton) = 10kg
Dim factor* = 6000
Freight rate per kilogram = US $15

Volumetric weight = (length x width x height ) ÷ dim factor
= (75 cm x 45 cm x 30cm) / 6000
= 16.90 kg (per carton)

Chargeable weight = Volumetric weight VS actual weight/gross weight whichever is greater
= 16.90 KG > 10 KG = 16.87 KG
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So, Air Freight Cost = rate per kilogram * chargeable weight
Air freight cost = US $15 * 16.90 kg = US$ 253.50

*Dim Factor is a number that freight carriers come up with to balance shipment volume against shipment weight. Commonly for air freight is 6000, and for UPS, DHL ect is 5000.

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Why do airlines use Chargeable Weight?

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Larger goods with a light overall weight can take up more space on an aircraft than a small, heavy item.

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Therefore, with chargeable weight, carriers take into account both the size and the weight, and use the larger value to calculate the final rate.

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Rajitha Reniguntla

Rajitha Reniguntla is a supply chain enthusiast from Hong Kong. With a curious mind, she's an avid learner carrying a knack for exploring and breaking down complex ideas. She loves to learn about new things and always aims to enhance the customer experience. Outside of work, she enjoys cycling, doodling and listening to podcasts!

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