Dimensional weight is a key aspect when shipping boxes. Therefore, it is essential to understand how dimensional weight is calculated before you begin the shipping process. At Navis Pack & Ship, we examine each item before we ship it to find the best way to protect your package.
What Is Dimensional Weight?
Dimensional weight refers to a technique of pricing that shipping carriers use to try and improve their shipping capabilities. Dimensional weight can be determined by finding out the volume that a particular product holds; the volume is then converted to billable weight.
When the dimensional weight of a package is significantly higher compared to its weight, an individual is charged for dimensional weight costs. In some instances, people ship items in boxes that are too large, and this means that they need additional cushions to maintain stability. The unnecessary cushioning can take up more space in trucks.
The space in delivery trucks is limited, and this makes the calculation of each product's dimensional weight necessary. Ultimately, the density of the package will determine the final shipping rates that you have to pay.
Freight carriers calculate the rates of shipping a product based on the highest number between the dimensional weight and the package's actual weight. The highest number between these two will be considered as the billable weight.
What is DIM Pricing?
DIM pricing is a technique used in pricing the shipping rate based on the package's dimensional weight. The pricing method is based on your package's size and weight.
DIM pricing is essential to shipping carriers because it assists them in finding the best way to utilize their shipping space. Many carriers noticed that they were losing a lot of money when they used pricing metrics that were only focused on the package's weight.
A lightweight product doesn't necessarily mean that it is small, and it is possible for products with lightweight to take as much space as heavy packages. Carriers shifted to dimensional weight instead of physical weight to ensure that they ship more units and utilize space effectively.
Steps To Calculate Dimensional Weight
Below are the five steps used in calculating the dimensional weight of packages.
- Package Quantification: You are required to give the correct package measurement to the shipping carrier. The measurements should include bumps, the package's rounded parts and irregularities.
- The next step is measuring the package's cubic size through the multiplication of length x width x height.
- Division with the dimensional factor. The carrier provides the dimensional factor; the dim divisor's value can range between 139 and 166 for domestic shipments and 139 for international air freights. The value of the DIM divisors can change, and it's essential to review the carrier's information in case of any modification or updates.
- Rounding Up: After you get the value of your dimensional weight, you should round it up to its nearest whole number, as shipping carriers will also do this.
- The final step is to note down the calculated dimensions so that you can determine the rate of shipping your package.
It is essential to note that if the calculated dimensional weight is less than 31 pounds, the freight carrier charges for a dimensional weight of 31 pounds. If it is more than 31 pounds, the pricing of the dimensional weight is based on the package's actual weight.
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Navis Pack & Ship has the knowledge and expertise to handle the shipping process of your package or freight shipment. We handle each product with care, and you can trust us to handle your international and domestic shipments coming from both Canada and the United States.
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