Some shipping companies use dimensional weight when calculating shipping cost. Among our available shipping methods, DHL, FedEx and Aramex apply dimensional weight pricing.

What is dimensional weight?
Dimensional weight works by calculating the size of a package by multiplying its length, width and height divided by divisor. It reflects a package’s density, which is the amount of space a package occupies in relation to its actual weight.

Pricing is calculated based on volume versus actual weight. Basically, if a package takes more space on an airplane, you need to pay more for that space. Shipping charge is based on the dimensional weight or actual weight of the package — whichever is greater.

Dimensional weight is defined as: (L x W x H) / divisor = Dimensional Weight
Note: The divisor can vary based on the shipping method used and destination country.

Example:
Let's take a look at this example. These two photos are the same items arranged in two different ways.

  • Option 1: Small items are put on top of one big shoe rack.
    Dimensional weight: 23.1 lbs ((L30 × W16 x H8)/166)
    Actual weight: 13.6 lbs

  • Option 2: A few items are laid next to a shoe rack which makes the whole package flatter.
    Dimensional weight: 21.4 lbs ((L37 × W16 x H6)/166)
    Actual weight: 13.6 lbs

The result – the second photo is 2 lbs less on dimensional weight!

Dimensional weight is greater than Actual weight, so dimensional pricing is applied here. By arranging as shown on the second photo, it reduced about 2 lbs on dimensional weight which resulted in saving 6 dollars on shipping cost.

Not only do we always cut down size on the box and shave off an inch, we make sure to find a way to reduce dimensional weight so that you can save on shipping.

For more details, try our shipping calculator for available methods and estimate shipping cost.