Air Freight Weight Calculator

Air Freight Chargeable Weight Formula:

\[ Chargeable\ Weight = \max(Actual\ Weight,\ \frac{L \times W \times H}{166})\ lbs \]

Actual Weight:

lbs

Length (L):

inches

Width (W):

inches

Height (H):

inches

Dimensional Weight:

Chargeable Weight:

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is Air Freight Chargeable Weight?

Air freight chargeable weight is the greater of the actual weight or dimensional weight of a shipment. Airlines use this calculation to ensure they are properly compensated for both heavy and lightweight but bulky shipments.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the air freight chargeable weight formula:

\[ Chargeable\ Weight = \max(Actual\ Weight,\ \frac{L \times W \times H}{166})\ lbs \]

Where:

\( Actual\ Weight \) — Physical weight of the shipment in pounds
\( L \) — Length of the package in inches
\( W \) — Width of the package in inches
\( H \) — Height of the package in inches
\( 166 \) — Dimensional factor for air freight (lbs per cubic inch)

Explanation: The formula compares the actual weight with the dimensional weight (calculated from package dimensions) and charges based on whichever is greater.

3. Importance of Chargeable Weight Calculation

Details: Accurate chargeable weight calculation is crucial for proper freight costing, avoiding unexpected charges, and optimizing packaging to reduce shipping costs.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter actual weight in pounds, and all dimensions in inches. Ensure all values are positive numbers. The calculator will display both dimensional weight and the final chargeable weight.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is dimensional weight used in air freight?
A: Dimensional weight accounts for the space a package occupies in the aircraft, ensuring airlines charge appropriately for lightweight but bulky items that take up valuable cargo space.

Q2: Is the 166 factor standard for all airlines?
A: While 166 is commonly used, some carriers may use different factors (like 139 or 194). Always check with your specific carrier for their dimensional weight divisor.

Q3: What's the difference between actual and dimensional weight?
A: Actual weight is the physical weight measured on a scale. Dimensional weight is calculated from package dimensions to represent the density of the shipment.

Q4: How can I reduce my chargeable weight?
A: Use smaller packaging, optimize package dimensions, or consolidate multiple shipments to improve density and reduce dimensional weight.

Q5: Do all freight carriers use chargeable weight?
A: Most air freight carriers and many ground carriers use chargeable weight calculations, though the specific formulas and divisors may vary.