The volumetric weight of a shipment is a calculation that reflects the density of a package. A less dense item generally occupies more volume of space, in comparison to its actual weight. The volumetric or dimensional weight is calculated and compared with the actual weight of the shipment to ascertain which is greater; the higher weight is used to calculate the shipment cost.

There has been widespread acceptance in the industry that the 6000 volumetric divisor is no longer an appropriate standard due to changes in aircraft technology. In the past 30 years payload per m3 has increased significantly, yet the volumetric calculations have not changed. As a result, aircrafts today bulk out volumetrically before they reach their full payload. Modern packaging is also often very bulky, and this directly compounds the issue.

Therefore in order to standardise volumetric weight for low-density shipments on a global scale, DHL Express will be updating the calculation for volumetric weight with effect from 1st November 2008.

The current 6000 divisor will be replaced with a 5000 divisor. The new formula will apply to all DHL Express Same Day, Time Definite and Day Definite products and will be implemented progressively to all countries worldwide.


length*width*height/5000

You can also use the quick calculator to determine the volumetric weight of DHL Express Shipments.