Chargeable Weight Calculator

How To Determine Chargeable Weight Costs For Air Freight

Easily calculate the chargeable costs of your air freight with our accurate and user-friendly chargeable weight calculator, ensuring transparent and efficient shipping.

How are air freight chargeable weight rates calculated?

Chargeable weight rates consider the higher value between the actual weight and the dimensional weight of your shipment.

By understanding chargeable weight basics, you can ensure accurate cost estimation and optimal use of space.

Calculating chargeable weight involves comparing the actual weight of your shipment with its dimensional weight, which is determined based on its volume.

This concept is essential in the air freight industry due to limited space and higher operating costs.

How to manually determine the chargeable weight for air freight shipments?

To get started, you'll need to take a few measurements of what you are sending.

Step 1: Measure the Dimensions of the Package

Use a ruler or tape measure to determine the width, height, and length of your package. Ensure you measure the package as it will be sent.

Step 2: Calculate the Volume of the Package

Multiply the width, height, and length to get the volume in cubic centimeters (cm³).

Formula: Volume = Width × Height × Length

Step 3: Calculate the Volumetric Weight

Divide the volume by 6000 to get the volumetric weight in kilograms (kg). This divisor is based on the standard used in air freight.

Formula: Volumetric Weight (kg)= Volume (cm³) divided by 6000

Step 4: Compare with Actual Weight

Compare the volumetric weight with the actual weight of the package. Use the higher value for shipping cost calculations.

Example Calculation

Let's say your package has the following dimensions:

• Width: 100 cm
• Height: 100 cm
• Length: 100 cm
• Actual Weight: 100 kg

Step 1: Measure the Dimensions

• Width: 100 cm
• Height: 100 cm
• Length: 100 cm

Step 2: Calculate the Volume

Volume = 100cm × 100cm × 100cm = 1,000,000cm³

Step 3: Calculate the Volumetric Weight

Volumetric Weight= 1,000,000cm³ divided by 6000 =166.67kg

Step 4: Compare with Actual Weight

• Actual Weight: 100 kg
• Volumetric Weight: 166.67 kg

In this example, the volumetric weight (166.67 kg) is greater than the actual weight (100 kg), so the volumetric weight will be used for shipping cost calculations.

What other factors affect air freight costs?

Aside from the volume and actual weight of your packages, you'll also need to understand what other charges may influence your total shipment cost—and there are quite a few to consider!

If your shipment consists of dangerous goods or hasn't been packaged properly, for instance, you'll likely incur more fees.

We've made a brief list here for you to consider, but please tell us about your specifics to ensure we can provide an accurate quote.

• Where you are sending items to, and where they are sent from. For instance, if you are sending from remote Australia and need an airport transfer, that will obviously increase costs. Similarly, if your package is going from Brisbane to the Kazakhstan desert, you'll likely be paying more than if the same items were heading to Finland.
• Large items that weigh little can cost more to ship than small, heavy ones. When sent by air, the space taken up is just as important as weight.
• Pick-up and drop-off fees—if you are doing more than airport-to-airport freight, there will likely be freight forwarding fees to have it delivered to or picked up from your door.
• Fuel surcharges. As we all know, fuel prices fluctuate daily, impacting airmail and packages.
• Security and dangerous goods fees
• Admin and handling charges
• Insurance
• Express or urgent delivery fees

There's a lot to consider! If you need a detailed quote or air shipment cost, please contact us.

How can I calculate chargeable weight fees?

To calculate chargeable weight, you can use the method or online calculator above.

If your quotation has many variables, such as needing additional transport on either side or sending highly fragile or hazardous items, please contact our team.

We can help you determine the best method of sensing by airfreight and ensure you understand any associated costs before you start.

Our highly knowledgeable team can walk you through the process and ensure you have a clear idea about all associated fees and costs.

Is airfreight the best option for you?