The process of determining the billable weight for air shipments involves a comparison between the actual gross weight and the dimensional weight. The greater of these two values becomes the weight used for freight cost calculation. The actual gross weight represents the total weight of the shipment, including packaging, typically measured in kilograms or pounds. Dimensional weight, on the other hand, accounts for the volume of the shipment. It is calculated by multiplying the length, width, and height of the package (in centimeters or inches) and dividing by a dimensional factor (also known as a DIM factor or divisor), which varies depending on the airline and trade lane. For example, if a package weighs 20 kg but occupies a large volume that yields a dimensional weight of 25 kg, the carrier will charge based on the 25 kg figure.
Accurate calculation of this billable weight is crucial for several reasons. It directly impacts the overall shipping cost, allowing shippers to budget effectively and avoid unexpected charges. Moreover, understanding the concept enables shippers to optimize packaging, potentially reducing the dimensional weight and thus lowering expenses. Historically, the practice of considering dimensional weight arose to address the fact that lightweight but bulky cargo could take up significant space on an aircraft, justifying a price based on volume rather than solely on mass. This ensures fair pricing for both the airline and the customer.
