Imagine carefully selecting your products, shipping them to an Amazon FBA warehouse with high expectations, only to face unexpectedly high freight costs due to "volumetric weight." This frustrating scenario is common in FBA air freight shipments, where carriers calculate shipping fees based not just on actual weight but on whichever is greater: actual weight or volumetric weight.
What Is Volumetric Weight?
Volumetric weight—also called dimensional weight—is calculated using the package's dimensions. The standard formula is:
Volumetric weight (kg) = Length (cm) × Width (cm) × Height (cm) ÷ 6000
However, some airlines or freight forwarders may use a divisor of 5000 instead of 6000, leading to higher volumetric weight calculations. It’s essential to confirm the exact formula with your carrier before shipping.
Why Volumetric Weight Matters
Lightweight but bulky items often incur higher costs due to volumetric weight. For example, a shipment with an actual weight of 80 kg but a volumetric weight of 100 kg will be charged based on the higher figure—100 kg. This discrepancy can significantly inflate shipping expenses.
How to Minimize Shipping Costs
To avoid unnecessary expenses, consider the following strategies:
- Optimize packaging: Use compact packaging to reduce wasted space. Eliminate excess padding or oversized boxes where possible.
- Compress goods when feasible: If products can be flattened or condensed without damage, doing so may lower volumetric weight.
- Collaborate with suppliers: Work with manufacturers to design slimmer, more efficient packaging from the outset.
- Compare carriers: Different logistics providers may use varying divisors or pricing structures. Researching multiple options can lead to significant savings.
By understanding how volumetric weight works and proactively adjusting packaging and shipping strategies, sellers can better control costs and avoid unwelcome surprises in their FBA shipments.