Why can a large box of clothes cost more than a small box of tools? The answer is volumetric weight. In air shipping, it isn’t only what the box weighs that counts, but also the space it takes up. And in ocean shipping, you pay directly by volume. Learning to calculate it helps you estimate your shipment and pay less.
What volumetric weight is
Volumetric weight is a weight calculated from the box’s measurements. It reflects the space the cargo takes up on the plane. At Next Day Cargo, air shipments are charged by the greater of the actual weight and the volumetric weight.
Formula for air shipments
Volumetric weight (lb) = length × width × height (in inches) ÷ 139
Step by step:
- Measure the box’s length, width and height in inches, at its widest point.
- Multiply the three measurements.
- Divide the result by 139.
- Weigh the box in pounds.
- Compare: you’re charged the higher number.
Formula for ocean shipments
Cubic feet = length × width × height (in inches) ÷ 1728
By sea there’s no comparison with weight: you pay by cubic feet. A cubic inch is small; a cubic foot has 12 × 12 × 12 = 1,728 cubic inches, which is why you divide by 1728.
Examples
| Box (inches) | Cubic inches | Air volumetric weight (÷139) | Ocean cubic feet (÷1728) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 × 12 × 12 | 1,728 | ≈ 12.4 lb | 1 |
| 18 × 18 × 18 | 5,832 | ≈ 42 lb | 3.375 |
| 24 × 18 × 18 | 7,776 | ≈ 56 lb | 4.5 |
| 24 × 24 × 24 | 13,824 | ≈ 99.5 lb | 8 |
Example 1: a light, large box
A 24 × 18 × 18 inch box of clothes weighs 20 pounds. Its volumetric weight is about 56 pounds. By air you’re charged for 56 pounds, not 20.
Example 2: a small, heavy box
A 12 × 12 × 12 inch box of tools weighs 35 pounds. Its volumetric weight is about 12.4 pounds. By air you’re charged for 35 pounds, the actual weight.
Example 3: the same box by sea
The box from example 1, by sea, is 4.5 cubic feet, whether it weighs 20 or 60 pounds.
How to measure your box properly
- Measure the closed, packed box, not the product. The box is what travels.
- Take the widest measurement on each side. If the box bulges, measure at the fullest point.
- Use a rigid tape measure and write down all three measurements in inches.
- Weigh the whole box on a scale, in pounds.
- If you’re sending several boxes, calculate each one separately and add up the results.
To choose the right box before you measure, see our guide on how to pack boxes for shipping to Venezuela.
Common mistakes
- Measuring only the product, not the box.
- Mixing centimeters and inches in the same calculation.
- Using the air formula (÷139) for an ocean shipment, or the other way around.
- Forgetting that a light box can be charged for its volume.
If you measure in centimeters
Divide each measurement in centimeters by 2.54 to convert it to inches, then apply the formula. For example, 45.7 cm ≈ 18 inches.
How to lower volumetric weight
- Use the smallest box your goods fit in without damage.
- Don’t send half-empty boxes by air.
- Combine your purchases: ask us to hold them and repack them into one box. Repackaging has an extra cost and is done with your authorization. More at repackaging.
- Consider ocean if the cargo is bulky and can wait a few weeks.
From formula to cost
With the weight or cubic feet calculated, all you need is the rate. Venezuela rates are on shipping to Venezuela. For Honduras, Panama, Costa Rica and the rest of Central America, request a quote. In every case, when your cargo reaches our Miami warehouse, we email you the air and ocean cost.
Remember that some services are quoted separately, such as pickup anywhere in the US, repackaging or delivery outside the door-to-door areas.
Frequently asked questions
Why am I charged more than my box weighs?
Because air shipping charges the greater of actual weight and volumetric weight. If your box is large and light, you’re charged for its volume.
Does volumetric weight apply to ocean shipments?
By sea you pay by cubic feet (length × width × height in inches ÷ 1728), not by weight.
What measurements should I send for a quote?
Length, width and height in inches, weight in pounds, and the description and value of your goods.
How do I lower the cost?
With right-size boxes, by consolidating your purchases and by comparing air with ocean.
Request your quote
With 35 years of experience, Next Day Cargo helps you calculate your shipment. Message us on WhatsApp at +1 305-477-3451, call (305) 477-3451 or email cotizaciones@nextdaycargo.com or info@nextdaycargo.com. You can also use our contact page.
