How to calculate the volume weight of air freight?

In the process of air transportation, the billing method for goods is not only based on their actual weight, but also needs to consider their volumetric weight. Volume weight, also known as "volume weight" or "light bubble weight", refers to the weight calculated based on the space occupied when the volume of goods is large but the actual weight is light. This is because in air transportation, the cargo space of airplanes is limited, and some lightweight goods, although not actually heavy, may occupy a lot of space. Therefore, by calculating the volume and weight, the cargo space of the aircraft can be allocated more fairly, ensuring the economy and efficiency of transportation.
Below, we will provide a detailed explanation of how to calculate the air freight volume weight:
1, Understand the concept and principle of volume and weight
The volumetric weight is a virtual weight calculated based on the size of the cargo's volume. The calculation principle is to multiply the length, width, and height of the goods to obtain a volume value, and then divide it by a fixed conversion factor to obtain the volume weight. This conversion factor is usually the weight of goods per cubic meter, which represents the density of goods, and different goods may have different conversion factors.
2, Determine the length, width, and height of the goods
To calculate the volumetric weight, it is first necessary to accurately measure the length, width, and height of the goods. When measuring, precise measuring tools should be used to ensure that the values of each dimension are accurate and error free. Meanwhile, it is important to note that the external dimensions of the goods, including packaging, are being measured.
3, Calculate the volume of goods
The result obtained by multiplying the length, width, and height of the goods is the volume of the goods. For example, if the length, width, and height of a cargo are 1 meter, 0.5 meter, and 0.4 meter respectively, then its volume is 10.50.4=0.2 cubic meters.
4, Determine conversion factor
The conversion coefficient is usually determined by airlines or freight forwarding companies based on factors such as the nature of the goods, transportation distance, and market conditions. Different goods may have different conversion factors, therefore, when calculating volumetric weight, it is necessary to understand and comply with the regulations of relevant companies or institutions.
5, Calculate volumetric weight
The result obtained by dividing the volume of goods by the conversion factor is the volumetric weight. For example, if the volume of goods is 0.2 cubic meters and the conversion factor is 6000 (i.e. the weight of goods per cubic meter is 6000 kilograms), then its volumetric weight is 0.2/6000=0.0003333 cubic meters, which is 0.03333 kilograms when converted to kilograms.
It should be noted that the calculation of volume weight involves multiple numerical values and conversion factors, so accuracy should be maintained during the calculation process to avoid errors. At the same time, it is necessary to understand and comply with the relevant regulations of airlines or freight forwarding companies to ensure the accuracy and compliance of calculation results.
6, Compare actual weight with volumetric weight
After calculating the volumetric weight, it is necessary to compare it with the actual weight. If the volumetric weight is greater than the actual weight, the volumetric weight will be used as the basis for billing; If the volumetric weight is less than or equal to the actual weight, then the actual weight shall prevail. This is because in air transportation, airlines are more concerned about the space occupancy of goods rather than their actual weight.
7, Optimize cargo transportation
After understanding how to calculate volume weight, shippers can also take some optimization measures to reduce transportation costs based on the volume and weight characteristics of the goods. For example, for goods with large volume and light weight, more compact packaging methods can be considered to reduce space occupation; For goods with larger weight and smaller volume, other transportation methods can be prioritized to fully utilize transportation resources.
In summary, calculating the volume and weight of air transportation is an important step in ensuring transportation economy and efficiency. By understanding the concept and calculation method of volume weight, shippers can better plan and manage the transportation process of goods, achieve cost control and maximize benefits.