What is dimensional weight?
LTL Carriers commonly use a system of pricing that accounts for weight, as well as density, volume and distance. Dimensional weight is a standard formula used throughout the freight industry that considers a package’s density when determining charges. Transportation charges are based on the gross weight of the shipment or the dimensional weight of the shipment; whichever is greater. Simply put, dimensional weight is when the weight of a package is inappropriately less than the actual size of the package. Example: A 10,000 pound shipment of ball bearings takes up less space in a trailer than does 10,000 pounds of cabinets!
Dimensional weight is a standard formula used throughout the freight industry that considers a package’s density when determining charges. Transportation charges are based on the gross weight of the shipment or the dimensional weight of the shipment; whichever is greater. Simply put, dimensional weight is when the weight of a package is inappropriately less than the actual size of the package. For example, a box filled with feathers. Carriers charge by the dimensional weight when the actual weight of a package is less than the calculated dimensional weight.
