A light box can occupy a lot of aircraft space. That is why an air freight request needs dimensions as well as weight. Actual gross weight tells the team what the packed cargo weighs; volumetric weight expresses the space it occupies. The chargeable weight is the figure used for the freight calculation under the applicable rate rules.
The basic comparison
IATA describes a general air cargo calculation using package volume in cubic centimetres divided by 6,000. The higher of volumetric weight and actual weight is generally used for pricing. Confirm the divisor, rounding and minimum-charge rules for the specific service: a courier offer or another tariff may use different rules.
Use the outer packed dimensions, including the pallet or crate. Specify your units clearly. Centimetres, inches, kilograms and pounds cannot be mixed in one calculation. If packages have different sizes, calculate each size group separately rather than averaging their dimensions.
Worked example: two packed cartons
Suppose each carton measures 60 × 50 × 40 cm and weighs 12 kg gross. Each occupies 120,000 cm³. Using a divisor of 6,000 gives 20 kg of volumetric weight per carton. For two cartons, gross weight is 24 kg and volumetric weight is 40 kg. The higher figure is 40 kg before any applicable rounding or other tariff conditions.
| Measure | For two cartons |
|---|---|
| Gross weight | 2 × 12 kg = 24 kg |
| Packed volume | 2 × 60 × 50 × 40 cm = 240,000 cm³ |
| Volumetric weight | 240,000 ÷ 6,000 = 40 kg |
Improve the information before changing the packaging
Measure the completed package, not the product inside it. A supplier’s catalogue size can exclude cushioning, the outer carton and pallet height. Ask the supplier for a photograph showing the measurement and a final weight record. Updated measurements can change the quotation, so confirm them before booking.
If the shipment will be palletized, ask for the final pallet dimensions and packed gross weight instead of simply adding the individual carton volumes. State whether there is overhang and whether the pallet can be stacked. That information helps the team assess the shipment’s physical handling needs alongside its pricing weight, before proposing a flight or pickup arrangement.
Avoid removing protective material simply to reduce volume. Discuss a suitable, compact packing design with the supplier or packer while keeping the goods protected. Declare batteries and other potentially dangerous goods before transport is assessed; their acceptance and packing rules require a specific review.
What to send with your air freight request
- Package count and outside dimensions for every package size.
- Gross weight, including packaging, with the unit clearly stated.
- Cargo description, battery details and special handling needs.
- Cargo-ready date, required delivery date and full delivery scope.
Common questions
Is chargeable weight the total price?
No. It is one pricing input. Compare the applicable rate, minimums, surcharges, handling and pickup or delivery scope in the written quote.
Official references
These references support the general principles in this guide. Confirm current requirements for your goods, countries and transport service before shipping.
