Curious on Your Products DIM WEIGHT?

Dimensional Weight Calculator

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View Billable Weight According to Your Dimensions

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How It’s Calculated
maximize efficiency

What is Dimensional Weight?

Dimensional weight (DIM weight) is a pricing technique used by carriers to account for the size of your package in relation to its weight. If your package is large but lightweight, it may incur higher shipping fees based on its volume rather than its actual weight.

Why Do Carriers Use Dimensional Weight?
Carriers use dimensional weight pricing to optimize the space in their shipping vehicles and aircraft. Since large, lightweight packages take up more room without adding significant weight, DIM weight allows carriers to charge based on the space a package occupies rather than its physical weight alone. This helps carriers balance load capacity, maximize efficiency, and reduce the cost of transporting large, low-density items.

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The delivery was slippery quick! My package came way sooner than I had been planning on! Grateful to have had a nice looking, not destroyed, all in one piece package arrive at my doorstep! Thanks First Mile here’s to many more miles of deliveries! 😉

- Melanie Kilburn
Billable weight breakdown

How Do Different Carriers Calculate Billable Weight?

Each carrier has its own formula and dimensional divisor to calculate DIM weight.
Here’s how the main players in the shipping industry apply dimensional weight:

UPS:
UPS uses a standard dimensional divisor of 139 for domestic shipments and 166 for international shipments. The billable weight is whichever is greater: DIM weight or actual weight.
USPS:
USPS applies dimensional weight pricing to Priority Mail packages exceeding 1 cubic foot. The DIM divisor is set at 166 for all shipments.
DHL:
DHL utilizes a divisor of 139 for most shipments, emphasizing efficiency and cost optimization for international shipping.
FirstMile:
FirstMile uses divisors similar to UPS, USPS, or DHL, depending on the Xparcel service selected. FirstMile considers dimensional weight to select the best all-in rate and optimal shipping service for each package, ensuring cost-effective and reliable delivery.
Dim calc breakdown

Learn the Benefits of Using the FirstMile
Dimensional Weight Calculator

how does dim weight help you?

Why Understanding DIM Weight Matters

Prevent Overbilling
Knowing how carriers calculate DIM weight helps prevent over billing and lets you optimize your packaging strategy.
Compare Rates Accurately
Easily see how carriers differ in calculating billable weight, and choose the best option based on your package size and weight.
Optimize Packaging
If your DIM weight is significantly higher than the actual weight, consider adjusting your packaging to reduce shipping costs.
DIM WEIGHT TIPS

Additional Tips for Managing DIM Weight Costs

Use Smaller Boxes: If possible, reduce the dimensions of your package to decrease DIM weight.

Choose the Right Service: Opt for shipping services that do not apply DIM weight for lightweight shipments.

Consolidate Shipments: When feasible, consolidate multiple items into one box to avoid paying for empty space.

"

The delivery was slippery quick! My package came way sooner than I had been planning on! Grateful to have had a nice looking, not destroyed, all in one piece package arrive at my doorstep! Thanks First Mile here’s to many more miles of deliveries! 😉

- Melanie Kilburn
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