Many people get confused when their shipping cost is higher than expected.
One major reason is:
volumetric weight.
If you import products internationally, understanding volumetric weight can save you money and help you avoid surprises.
What Is Volumetric Weight?
Volumetric weight is the amount of space a package takes up during shipping.
Shipping companies don’t only charge based on actual weight.
They also consider:
- package size
- box dimensions
- space occupied
Large packages take up more cargo space—even if they are light.
Example
Imagine:
- Package A weighs 10kg
- Package B weighs 2kg but is very large
The larger package may cost MORE to ship because it occupies more space.
Why Shipping Companies Use Volumetric Weight
Cargo space is limited.
Large lightweight items:
- reduce available space
- limit how many packages fit
That’s why shipping companies use volumetric calculations.
How Volumetric Weight Is Calculated
Most companies use:
Length × Width × Height ÷ divisor
The divisor varies depending on:
- air freight
- courier service
- shipping company
Items Commonly Affected
Examples include:
- pillows
- large shoes boxes
- luggage
- plastic storage bins
- bulky packaging
How to Reduce Volumetric Weight Costs
1. Avoid Oversized Packaging
Smaller packaging reduces shipping costs.
2. Consolidate Shipments
Combining packages often improves efficiency.
3. Remove Unnecessary Boxes
Extra packaging adds size quickly.
4. Use Experienced Shipping Providers
They may help optimize packaging.
Actual Weight vs Volumetric Weight
Shipping companies usually charge whichever is HIGHER:
- actual weight
- volumetric weight
Understanding this helps you estimate costs more accurately.
Why This Matters for Nigerians
If you import products from:
- USA
- China
shipping costs directly affect:
- personal shopping budgets
- business profits
Learning volumetric weight helps:
- avoid overspending
- improve pricing
- maximize profit margins
Final Thoughts
Volumetric weight is one of the most important concepts in international shipping.
The more you understand it, the smarter your shipping decisions become.
👉 Want affordable shipping solutions from the USA or China to Nigeria? Kango Express Nigeria helps simplify international shipping for individuals and businesses.
Contact us via email at info@kangonigeria.com or via phone/Whatsapp at +234-805-441-1664. We’re here to help with any questions or concerns!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is volumetric weight?
Volumetric weight is a shipping calculation based on the amount of space a package occupies rather than only its actual weight.
Why do shipping companies use volumetric weight?
Shipping companies use volumetric weight because large lightweight packages occupy valuable cargo space.
How is volumetric weight calculated?
Volumetric weight is commonly calculated using:
Length × Width × Height ÷ divisor
The divisor varies depending on the shipping provider.
Do shipping companies charge actual weight or volumetric weight?
Shipping companies usually charge whichever is higher:
- actual weight
- volumetric weight
What items are commonly affected by volumetric weight?
Examples include:
- pillows
- large shoe boxes
- luggage
- bulky packaging
- plastic storage bins
How can I reduce volumetric shipping charges?
You can reduce charges by:
- using smaller packaging
- consolidating shipments
- removing unnecessary boxes