Air freight chargeable weight
Air freight is charged on the chargeable weight: the higher of the actual gross weight and the volumetric weight. At the common 1:6000 ratio, volumetric weight in kg is length × width × height in cm ÷ 6000, so 1 m³ counts as 166.67 kg.
The rule
Volumetric weight (kg) = L × W × H (cm) ÷ 6000
Chargeable weight = the higher of actual and volumetric weight
The 1:6000 ratio (6000 cm³ per kg) is the common IATA standard for general air cargo. Some express services use 5000. Your forwarder's quote states which applies.
Worked example
| Shipment | Actual | Volume | Volumetric (÷ 6000) | Chargeable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 pallets 120 × 80 × 150 cm | 380 kg | 2.88 m³ | 480 kg | 480 kg |
| 10 cartons 50 × 40 × 30 cm | 180 kg | 0.6 m³ | 100 kg | 180 kg |
| Mixed shipment from the CBM guide | 2,280 kg | 10.08 m³ | 1,680 kg | 2,280 kg |
The pallets are light for their size, so they are charged on volume. The cartons are dense, so they are charged on their actual weight.
Check air chargeable weightThe CBM calculator shows air chargeable weight at 1:6000 next to the actual weight.Density: the quick test
Divide the actual weight by the volume. If the shipment weighs less than about 167 kg per m³, it will be charged on volume at 1:6000. Pallets, foam, furniture, lampshades and garments on hangers are typical volume cargo; metal parts, liquids and paper are typically weight cargo.
How to lower chargeable weight
- Use lower pallets or ship floor-loaded cartons if the airline allows; a pallet's deck and any empty space above the cargo count.
- Avoid pyramid stacks: the dimensions are measured at the widest and highest points.
- Use right-sized cartons and less void fill (see carton dimensions).
- Consolidate dense and light cargo in the same shipment where it makes sense; the forwarder charges the total.
Tools used in this guide
Related guides
Common questions
What is the volumetric ratio for air freight?
Commonly 1:6000 (6000 cm³ per kg, or 166.67 kg per m³); some express services use 1:5000.
How do I calculate chargeable weight?
Work out the volumetric weight (L × W × H in cm ÷ 6000) and compare it with the actual gross weight; the higher number is charged.
Do pallets count in air freight weight?
Yes. The pallet's weight and its dimensions, including height, count.
What density is charged on actual weight at 1:6000?
Anything heavier than about 167 kg per cubic metre.