Volumetric weight calculator — box size vs billable weight
Enter length, width, height, actual weight, and a carrier divisor to see volume, volumetric weight, and which number is likely billable.
Units
Common starters: 5000 (cm→kg) or 139 (in→lb). Your carrier may use a different number.
Results
Volume: 1536
Volumetric weight: 11.05 lb
Billable weight: 11.05 lb
Carrier likely bills volumetric weight.
Formula
volume=L×W×H; volWeight=volume÷divisor; billable=max(actual,volWeight)
Worked steps (check these)
- Volume = 16 × 12 × 8 = 1536
- Volumetric weight = 1536 ÷ 139 = 11.05 lb
- Billable weight = max(4, 11.05) = 11.05 lb
Estimate only — carriers publish different divisors and rounding. Confirm before you buy postage.
Light bulky boxes often ship on dim weight. Compare volume math to the scale before you promise free shipping.
How to use
- Measure outer box L×W×H
- Enter actual weight and divisor
- Read volumetric and billable weight
Why this calculator
- Editable divisor
- Billable = max(actual, vol)
- Imperial or metric
Good for
- Etsy shipping profiles
- Parcel quotes
- Packaging size tests
Tips
- Measure the packed outer box
- Round rules differ — verify on the carrier site
Examples
| Input | Output | Note |
|---|---|---|
| 40×30×20 cm, 2 kg, divisor 5000 | Volumetric kg vs actual → billable = max | Try 139 for in→lb style divisors |
Volumetric FAQ
- Which divisor should I use?
- Carriers publish different numbers. 5000 (cm→kg) and 139 (in→lb) are common starters — replace with your label tool’s value.
- Is this the postage price?
- No — only the weight the rate table may use. Zones and services still apply.
- Pricing handmade after shipping?
- Fold postage into Craft pricing or check Etsy fees.