Chargeable weight
Chargeable weight is the weight the carrier uses to calculate the price. It is the actual weight or the volumetric weight, whichever is higher.
In plain words
Light but large cargo takes a lot of space, so carriers convert volume into a “volumetric weight”. Then they compare it with the actual gross weight and charge for the higher one.
Each mode uses its own factor. In air freight, the usual rule is 1 m³ = 167 kg (length × width × height in cm ÷ 6,000). In road groupage, a common factor is 1 m³ = 333 kg. In sea LCL, 1 m³ is treated as 1,000 kg. Factors can differ by carrier, so check the quote. Measure your packages correctly, because the carrier will re-measure them.
Example from real shipping
A box of lamps weighs 90 kg and measures 120 × 80 × 100 cm. For air freight, the volumetric weight is 120 × 80 × 100 ÷ 6,000 = 160 kg. This is higher than 90 kg, so the airline charges for 160 kg. Smaller packaging would reduce the cost.
Related terms
- AWBAn air waybill (AWB) is the transport document for air freight. It is a receipt for the cargo and evidence of the contract with the airline. It is not a document of title.
- LCLLCL means your cargo shares a container with cargo from other shippers. You pay only for the space your goods use.
- Packing ListA packing list shows how the goods are packed: the number of packages, what is in each one, and their weights and sizes.
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Request a QuoteThis glossary is general information, not legal or customs advice. Rules, fees, and practice can differ by carrier, port, and country.