Understanding how to calculate chargeable weight is crucial for managing shipping costs. Couriers consider both weight and volume when determining shipment charges. Here's a detailed guide on how it works.
What is Chargeable Weight and How is it Calculated?
Chargeable weight, like actual weight, is measured in kilograms or pounds. It is the value used to calculate shipping rates for a given courier service. Chargeable weight is different from actual weight when the courier services account for the length, width, and height of the parcel, in addition to its weight.
Example:
- Dimensions: 50cm x 50cm x 40cm
- Weight: 5kg
- Courier: UPS
- Actual Weight: 5kg
- Volumetric Weight: (50x50x40)/5000 = 20kg
- Chargeable Weight: 20kg (volumetric weight is higher)
Weight Brackets: The exact chargeable weight and shipping cost are determined based on the weight bracket the chargeable weight falls under. Couriers generally round up to the next weight bracket, usually in 1lb or 0.5kg increments.
- Example: A shipment using UPS SurePost with a weight of 3.2lbs will have a chargeable weight of 4lbs.
Calculation Methods
The calculation method is determined by how the chargeable weight is calculated. Based on the shipping cost rules set by the courier, Easyship will use one of three different calculation methods to calculate the chargeable weight.
The calculation method and chargeable weight are visible in the cost breakdowns and shipment details. Below we go through the three calculation methods and the conditions that apply the method.
Actual Weight: Used when the actual weight is greater than the volumetric weight.
- Condition: The courier doesn't consider volumetric weight, or the actual weight is greater than the volumetric weight.
Volumetric Weight: Used when the volumetric weight is greater than the actual weight.
- Condition: The courier considers volumetric weight, and the volumetric weight is greater than the actual weight.
USPS Cubic: Applies to some USPS Priority Mail services, based on specific criteria.
- Condition: The shipment is eligible for USPS's discounted pricing under specific tiers measured in cubic feet. You can find out more about USPS Cubic pricing here.
Why do Couriers Use Volumetric Weight?
Couriers use volumetric weight because it better represents the true cost of transporting parcels. Larger parcels take up more space, increasing transportation costs, even if they are light. Volumetric weight ensures pricing reflects this.
Why is it Important to Provide Accurate Weight and Dimensions?
Couriers measure parcels during transit using precise laser measurements. Discrepancies between declared and actual measurements can result in additional charges or refunds. Accurate measurements help avoid these adjustments and ensure correct shipping costs.
If there is a difference between what they measure and what you declared on Easyship, you may be charged extra according to the changes in shipping costs. If the parcel is bigger/heavier than declared, you will be charged to make up for the difference. This works the other way too; if the parcel is smaller/lighter than declared, you will receive an appropriate partial refund.
Weighing and measuring your parcel as accurately as possible is the best way to limit shipping charge adjustments.