Difference between real weight and volumetric weight in shipments
What is it, and why it matters
The shipping and logistics industry is a complex network of processes and factors that require precision in measuring the weight of items to be transported. Two key concepts that come into play in this context are “real weight” and “volumetric weight.” Although often used interchangeably, there are crucial differences between these two methods of weight calculation, each of which plays a fundamental role in determining shipping costs and optimizing space in transportation vehicles.
Definition of Real Weight
Real weight, or “physical weight,” is a direct measure of the actual mass of an object or shipment. This measurement is taken using a scale, and the result is expressed in standard weight units, such as pounds (lb) or kilograms (kg). In other words, real weight represents the gravitational force acting on an object and is constant everywhere. If you have a package that weighs 10 kg, its real weight will always be 10 kg, regardless of where you measure it.
Definition of Volumetric Weight
Volumetric weight, also known as “dimensional weight” or “cubic weight,” represents the weight calculated based on the physical space occupied by an object or shipment. This measurement is based on the dimensions of the object (length, width, and height) multiplied by a “density factor” specified by the courier or shipping company. The result is often expressed in standard weight units (e.g., kg) and represents the theoretical weight of the object based on its physical volume.
Calculation of Volumetric Weight
The calculation of volumetric weight is done using a common formula:
Volumetric Weight (kg) = (Length x Width x Height) / Density Factor
The “density factor” is specified by the courier or shipping company and is often expressed as a numerical value.
The density factor varies depending on the mode of transportation:
AIR: 1m3 = 167 kg
SEA: 1m3 = 1000 kg
TRUCK: 1m3 = 200 kg
1 m3 = 250 kg
1 m3 = 300 kg
The use of the density factor is essential when calculating shipping costs for lightweight but bulky items. This approach ensures that the courier is adequately compensated for the space occupied by objects that, if calculated based on real weight alone, would result in disproportionately low shipping costs relative to the actual space they occupy. In essence, the density factor is a parameter that allows assessing the “virtual weight” of an object based on its physical volume, ensuring that couriers are adequately rewarded for the transportation service.
Purpose of Volumetric Weight
Volumetric weight is a critical concept in the shipping industry and serves several main purposes:
- Calculation of Shipping Costs: Volumetric weight is used to calculate the shipping cost of an item. Often, couriers charge based on the higher weight between real weight and volumetric weight. This means that even lightweight but bulky items can incur significant shipping costs.
- Space Optimization: Shipping and logistics companies use volumetric weight to plan how to optimize space within their transportation vehicles. This contributes to maximizing efficiency in cargo handling.
Key Difference between Real Weight and Volumetric Weight
The fundamental difference between real weight and volumetric weight lies in the type of measure they represent.
Real weight is a direct and constant measure of the physical mass of an object, while volumetric weight is a measure based on the physical volume of the object and depends on the specified density factor. Understanding this difference is essential for businesses and consumers managing shipments. For example, lightweight but bulky items can result in higher shipping costs due to volumetric weight. At the same time, companies must consider both real weight and volumetric weight when planning their shipments to maximize efficiency and minimize costs.
In conclusion, understanding the difference between real weight and volumetric weight is crucial for the shipping and logistics industry. Both concepts play an important role in determining costs and optimizing transportation, allowing businesses to efficiently manage shipments and save on transportation costs when necessary.
