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Chargeable Weight Formula:
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Chargeable Weight (CW) is the weight used by airlines to calculate freight charges. It is the greater of either the actual weight or the volumetric weight of the shipment, ensuring fair pricing for both dense and lightweight cargo.
The calculator uses the standard air freight formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula compares the volumetric weight (volume divided by 166) with the actual physical weight and selects the higher value as the chargeable weight.
Details: Accurate chargeable weight calculation is essential for proper freight costing, avoiding billing discrepancies, and optimizing cargo space utilization in air transportation.
Tips: Enter volume in cubic inches and actual weight in pounds. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will automatically determine which weight (volumetric or actual) is higher and display the chargeable weight.
Q1: Why is 166 used as the volumetric divisor?
A: 166 is the standard conversion factor for air freight that represents the density at which 1 pound occupies 166 cubic inches of space.
Q2: What if my measurements are in different units?
A: Convert all measurements to the required units: volume in cubic inches and weight in pounds before using the calculator.
Q3: Does this apply to all airlines?
A: While 166 is the industry standard, some airlines may use slightly different divisors. Always check with your specific carrier.
Q4: What is considered "dense" cargo?
A: Dense cargo has an actual weight greater than its volumetric weight. Lightweight cargo has volumetric weight greater than actual weight.
Q5: How do I calculate volume for irregular shapes?
A: For irregular shapes, use the dimensions of the smallest rectangular box that can contain the item (length × width × height).