Why are airfreight charges sometimes based on volume and not on the actual weight?
It is an international air cargo standard to charge for weight or volume, whichever is the greater according to the formula — length x height x width (cm) x 167 This formula converts volume to weight, and ensures that the air carriers receive a reasonable amount of revenue for very light items. For example a bag of feathers would take up a great deal of space in a cargo hold but because of their low weight, the airline would earn little revenue from their carriage. For example a tea carton dimensions 41x51x61cm; 16x20x24ins would be calculated as follows: 41x51x61x167=21kg volumetric weight This means that the above items would be charged for the actual weight if greater than 21 kg. If the box weighed say 13kg, then the charge will still be for 21kg. We are most happy to explain this concept further if you require. Please bear in mind that this is an International Standard ruling. Even if your chosen shipping company does not tell you about this charge, they will still rate your shipm
