What is the Dimensional Weight Calculator?
Couriers charge for space as well as weight. Dimensional weight (DIM weight) converts a parcel's size into an equivalent weight; you pay for whichever is higher, the chargeable weight.
The calculator supports common divisors: 5000 (DHL, FedEx, UPS international in cm/kg), 6000 (many domestic and air cargo), and 139/166 for inches and pounds. Next, estimate the courier bill with the Shipping Cost Calculator. All calculators accept centimetres, inches or millimetres and kilograms or pounds, so you can use the units on your supplier's spec sheet.
How to use the Dimensional Weight Calculator
- Enter length, width and height.
- Enter the actual weight.
- Choose the DIM divisor.
- Read DIM weight and chargeable weight.
Formula
DIM weight (kg) = L × W × H (cm) ÷ divisor · Chargeable = max(actual, DIM)
Example
A 50 × 40 × 30 cm box weighing 6 kg has a DIM weight of 60,000 ÷ 5,000 = 12 kg, so the courier bills 12 kg.
Ways to lower DIM weight
- Use the smallest box that fits the product and padding.
- Use flexible mailers for clothes and soft goods.
- Avoid oversized void fill.
- Ask for custom-size boxes for regular products.
Related packaging and shipping tools
Packaging decisions are connected: the box size sets the volumetric weight, which sets the courier bill, and the carton size decides how many fit on a pallet or in a container. These related calculators help with the next step:
- Volumetric weight calculator: courier, air, sea and road.
- CBM calculator: cubic metres for a shipment.
- Shipping cost calculator: courier cost from your rate card.
- Freight cost calculator: air, LCL, FCL and road.
- Package weight calculator: gross weight of a packed box.
Frequently asked questions
What is dimensional weight?
A weight calculated from parcel size, used when a parcel is light but bulky.
Which divisor does DHL use?
Usually 5000 for cm and kg on international express.
What is chargeable weight?
The higher of actual weight and DIM weight.
What is the DIM factor in inches?
139 for many US carriers (in³ per lb), or 166 for some.
Is DIM weight the same as volumetric weight?
Yes, the terms are used interchangeably.
Is the Dimensional Weight Calculator free to use?
Yes. The Dimensional Weight Calculator on Custom Converter is completely free, with no sign-up, no daily limit and no watermark.
Does the Dimensional Weight Calculator work on mobile phones?
Yes. It is built mobile-first and works on Android phones, iPhones, tablets and computers in any modern browser, with no app to install.