Modified on Thu, 24 Apr, 2025 at 01:14 PM
Shipping costs are generally calculated by actual weight at checkout. However, some items—while lightweight—can be bulky and occupy significant space in delivery trucks or airplanes (e.g., one-piece plastic sticks). Because of this, courier companies apply dimensional weight pricing to such shipments.
Dimensional weight is a pricing technique used by couriers when a package is large relative to its weight. The volume of the package is calculated and then divided by a specific divisor unique to each courier.
For example, UPS uses the following formula:
Length × Width × Height (in inches) ÷ 139 = Dimensional Weight (in lbs.)
The shipping cost is based on whichever is greater: the actual weight or the dimensional weight.
Item: 1000 one-piece plastic sticks
Actual Weight: 13.15 lbs
Box Dimensions: 18" × 16" × 16"
Courier: UPS
Calculation:
18 × 16 × 16 = 4608 cubic inches
4608 ÷ 139 = 33.15 lbs (dimensional weight)
UPS would charge the shipment based on 33.15 lbs, not the actual 13.15 lbs.
Flat Ground Shipping: $8.92
Express Shipping: Starts at $19.84 and increases based on weight or dimensional weight.
Tip: We recommend limiting the number of bulky items when choosing Express Shipping, as these items can significantly increase the shipping cost due to dimensional weight calculations.