Air cargo calculator

Air Freight Chargeable Weight Calculator

Calculate air-freight volumetric weight, compare it with actual shipment weight and estimate the chargeable weight used for pricing.

Length (cm) Width (cm) Height (cm) Pieces Actual total weight (kg) Volumetric divisor Rate per chargeable kg Minimum freight charge

Common air-freight formula

Volumetric kg = (L × W × H in cm × pieces) ÷ divisor

Chargeable kg = max(actual kg, volumetric kg)

A divisor of 6,000 cm³/kg (a 1:6 density ratio) is commonly used for air freight, but carriers and forwarders can apply different rules. Enter the divisor shown on your quote or tariff. The cost estimate excludes fuel, security, origin, destination, customs and other accessorial charges.

How air freight chargeable weight works

Air carriers compare actual gross weight with volumetric weight because aircraft are constrained by both weight and space. DHL Global Forwarding describes a common air-freight density ratio of 1:6, equivalent to dividing cubic centimeters by 6,000, and using the greater applicable weight for charging.

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Understand actual vs volumetric weight and common air-cargo rules.

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Reference: DHL Global Forwarding — Calculating Chargeable Weight.

Worked example

Two cartons measuring 120 × 80 × 50 cm occupy 0.96 CBM. Using a 6,000 divisor, volumetric weight is 160 kg. If actual total weight is 120 kg, the estimated chargeable weight is 160 kg because the volumetric result is higher.

Frequently asked questions

What divisor is used for air freight?

A 6,000 cm³/kg divisor is common for general air freight, but the applicable carrier, forwarder, lane or commodity rule can differ. Use the divisor on the quote or tariff.

Is chargeable weight always actual or volumetric weight, whichever is higher?

That is the common principle for air freight, but rounding, minimums and service-specific rules can affect the final billed weight.

Does this calculator include fuel and security surcharges?

No. The optional cost result is a base-freight estimate using the chargeable weight and rate you enter. Add carrier and local charges separately.