Actual vs DIM Weight
Side-by-side actual and DIM weight, with a clear who-governs result.
Actual
5.00kg
DIM
12.80kg
Governs
DIM
Standard industry convention
Rule: International Standard (5,000 cm³/kg)
Effective from: 2000-01-01
Last verified: 2026-08-01 · IATA ULD Regulations / General cargo industry convention
How it was calculated
5 kg × 15.000 kg1 item type(s)0.0640 m³64000 cm³ ÷ 500012.800 kgmax(actual, DIM) = max(5.00, 12.80)12.80 kgNext calculation
Dimensional Weight Calculator
Calculate DIM weight from a versioned divisor — not one global UPS number.
Chargeable Weight Calculator
The higher of actual and DIM weight — the figure carriers bill.
Volumetric Weight Calculator
Air freight volumetric weight using the 6,000 divisor (1 CBM ≈ 167 kg).
Freight Density Calculator
kg/m³ and lb/ft³ with an indicative density class — not official NMFC.
How it works
Enter dimensions and actual weight. The calculator shows both weights side by side with a clear indicator of which governs your freight cost.
Formula
Worked example
A 40×40×40 cm box weighing 5 kg. DIM (5,000): 12.8 kg. DIM governs — you pay for 12.8 kg.
Frequently asked questions
When does actual weight govern?
Actual weight governs when your cargo is dense and heavy relative to its size — for example, machinery, metals, or liquids.
When does DIM weight govern?
DIM weight governs when your cargo is bulky and light — for example, pillows, packaging materials, or foam products.