
Dimensional weight scale is a crucial factor in efficient shipping. It's calculated by multiplying the package's length, width, and height in inches, then dividing by 166.
This method is used by major carriers like UPS and FedEx to determine shipping costs. It's a more accurate way to calculate weight than just relying on the package's physical weight.
For example, a package that's 12 inches long, 6 inches wide, and 4 inches high would have a dimensional weight of 3.6 pounds, even if it only weighs 2 pounds. This can significantly impact shipping costs.
As a result, shippers need to consider the dimensional weight of their packages to avoid overcharging or undercharging customers.
Expand your knowledge: Legal Weight Limit for Semi Trucks
What is Dimensional Weight Scale?
Dimensional weight is the weight of a package based on its size rather than its actual weight. This is a crucial concept to understand when shipping packages, as carriers like USPS, FedEx, and UPS use dimensional weight to determine shipping rates.
To calculate dimensional weight, you'll need to determine the package dimensions in inches, rounding each measurement to the nearest whole number. For example, if a package is 9.00 to 9.49 inches long, you'll consider it 9 inches.
Here's a quick reference table to help you calculate dimensional weight:
The dimensional weight calculation involves multiplying the package length by the width by the height, then dividing the result by the carrier's divisor. The outcome will give you the dimensional weight, which may be greater than the actual weight.
What is Weighing?
Weighing is a crucial aspect of calculating dimensional weight. It's the actual weight of a package.
Carriers like USPS, FedEx, and UPS consider this weight when determining shipping rates. They want to ensure they're compensated for the physical weight of the parcel.
Dimensional weighing, also known as "dim weight", considers a package's volume in addition to its actual weight. This method encourages shippers to use space more efficiently.
The dimensional weight reflects the density of a package, which is the amount of space it occupies in relation to its actual weight.
What is Weight?

Weight is a crucial factor in calculating dimensional weight, and it's essential to understand the difference between actual weight and dim weight. Actual weight is the weight of a package as measured on a scale, while dim weight is the weight of a package based on its size.
To calculate actual weight, you'll need to know the weight of your package in pounds or kilograms. This is usually done with a scale. For example, if your package weighs 5 pounds, that's your actual weight.
Dim weight, on the other hand, is calculated based on the package's dimensions in inches. You'll need to measure the length, width, and height of your package and multiply these numbers together. The result is your dimensional weight.
What Is Dimensioning System?
Dimensioning systems are used to determine the cubic dimensions of items, typically with safe laser sensing technology.
Most dimensioning systems provide accurate cubic dimensions.
You should ask about accuracy when reviewing a dimensioning system.
Dimensioning solutions like the iDimension PWD Dimensioner and Scale system are used for freight and pallet dimensioning.
Freight and pallet dimensioning is crucial for businesses that ship large items or bulk quantities.
Accurate dimensional and weight data is essential for calculating freight charges.
Understanding
Dimensional weight reflects the density of a package—the amount of space it occupies in relation to its actual weight. Carriers like USPS, FedEx, and UPS use the dimensional weight to determine shipping rates.
To calculate dimensional weight, you'll need to measure your package's dimensions in inches, rounding each measurement to the nearest whole number. For example, 9.00 to 9.49 will be considered 9, and 9.50 to 9.99 will be considered 10.
You'll then multiply the package length by the width by the height, and divide the result by a specific divisor depending on the carrier: USPS uses 1728, FedEx and UPS use 139. This calculation will give you the dimensional weight.
For those services where dimensional weight is relevant, take the greater of this calculation or the actual, scale-based weight to determine the shipping cost. This ensures carriers are compensated for the space parcels occupy on trucks, planes, and distribution centers.
Here's a quick reference guide to the divisors used by each carrier:
How it Works
Dimensional weight scales are designed to make on-the-go dimensioning effortless. You can even measure parcel dimensions with a dimensional weight scales app, like the one that integrates with your iPhone 13 Pro.
Most dimensioning systems use safe laser sensing technology to determine the cubed dimensions of items. This technology provides accurate, cubic dimensions.
You should ask about the accuracy and safety of the laser sensing technology when reviewing a dimensioning system prior to purchase.
How Do Dimensioning Systems Function?
Dimensioning systems use safe laser sensing technology to determine the cubed dimensions of items. This technology provides accurate, cubic dimensions that are essential for businesses that ship large items or bulk quantities.
Most dimensioning systems, like the Pallet Ultima Pro, provide precise measurements of items. They are designed to work efficiently and accurately, making them a valuable tool for any shipping or logistics operation.
To ensure you get the right dimensioning system for your business, you should ask specific questions about each system you review. This includes questions about accuracy, efficiency, and compatibility with your existing equipment.
Here are some key questions to consider:
- What is the accuracy level of the dimensioning system?
- How does the system handle irregularly shaped items?
- Is the system compatible with your existing pallets and shipping containers?
Freight and pallet dimensioning is crucial for businesses that ship large items or bulk quantities. Dimensioning solutions like the iDimension PWD Dimensioner and Scale system provide shippers with accurate dimensional and weight data for palletized shipments.
Dimensioning Systems Work
Dimensioning systems work by using sensors and cameras to capture and calculate the size of a package quickly. This technology speeds up the process of determining shipping costs and increases accuracy, reducing the chance of human error.
Most dimensioning systems use safe laser sensing technology to determine the cubed dimensions of items. Each manufacturer has specific selling points, but all dimensioning systems should provide accurate, cubic dimensions.
Dimensioning systems can measure a wide range of items, from small envelopes to mid-sized refrigerators. For example, the vMeasure dimensional weighing system can measure items with dimensions up to 39.4 x 29.5 x 17.7 inches.
The vMeasure Parcel Ultima Specifications list the minimum and maximum dimensions of items that can be measured. Here are the specifications:
For items below 0.8 inches in height, a special envelope base plate is required. This ensures accurate measurement and prevents damage to the item being measured.
Dimensioning systems can be mounted on various surfaces, including tables, mobile carts, and mechanical conveyors. This flexibility makes them easy to integrate into existing workflows.
The accuracy of dimensioning systems varies depending on the item being measured. For example, the vMeasure Parcel Ultima Specifications list an accuracy of 0.2 inches for cubed and cuboid objects, and 0.4 inches for other objects.
Benefits and Importance
Using a dimensional weight scale can bring numerous benefits to your business. You can save money on shipping by avoiding overcharges with accurate weight calculations.
One of the key benefits of a dimensional weight scale is its simplicity to use. With laser tech and easy software, the process is streamlined, making it easy to get started.
Automating the process with a dimensional weight scale can significantly boost efficiency. This allows you to handle more packages with less effort, making it a valuable tool for businesses of all sizes.
A dimensional weight scale is built to last and can handle high-volume shipping environments for long-term use. This means you can rely on it to get the job done without worrying about it breaking down.
Here are some of the key benefits of using a dimensional weight scale:
- Save Money on Shipping
- Simple to Use
- Boost Efficiency
- Durable and Reliable
- Versatile
By accurately calculating dimensional weight, you can also reduce errors in measuring and recording package details. This ensures accurate packing and reduces the likelihood of costly returns.
Why Matters
Dimensional weight matters because it affects the cost of shipping packages. Carriers like FedEx and UPS often charge based on DIM weight, so getting it right can save money.
This method looks at both the weight and size of a package to calculate shipping fees. It helps businesses avoid paying too much for large, light items.
The Laser Dimensional Scale helps your business by calculating DIM weight accurately. This way, you only pay the true shipping cost based on both the weight and size of each package.
Why vMeasure Is Right
The vMeasure dimensional weight scale is a game-changer for any order fulfillment center. It streamlines the packing process and reduces shipping costs through accurate dimensional measurements and automated parcel imaging.
With the vMeasure dimensional weighing system, you can capture precise dimensions and weight in less than 1 second, speeding up the packing process and enabling your team to handle more orders efficiently. This is a huge time-saver, especially in high-volume packing operations.
Error reduction is another key benefit of the vMeasure dimensional weight scale. Automated measurements and recording of package details minimize errors, ensuring accurate packing and reducing the likelihood of costly returns.
You can quickly resolve or file claims for damaged packages with the annotated parcel images provided by the vMeasure dimensional weighing system. This saves time and protects your business from potential losses.
To ensure compliance with carrier size and weight requirements, the vMeasure dimensional weight scale is a must-have. It prevents unexpected surcharges and keeps your shipping costs predictable.
Here are some key benefits of the vMeasure dimensional weight scale at a glance:
- Faster Throughput: captures precise dimensions and weight in less than 1 second
- Error Reduction: minimizes errors in measuring and recording package details
- Dispute Damage Claims: annotated parcel images for quick resolution or filing of claims
- Compliance Assurance: ensures packages meet carrier size and weight requirements
BA-DS2424 Scale Benefits Your Business
The BA-DS2424 Scale is a game-changer for businesses looking to improve their shipping efficiency. It uses SCADA technology to precisely calculate dimensional weight, reducing costs and extra shipping fees.
By investing in this scale, your business can avoid overcharges with accurate weight calculations. This is especially important for businesses that ship a high volume of packages.
The BA-DS2424 Scale is easy to use, with laser tech and simple software that simplify the process. This makes it perfect for businesses of all sizes and industries.
Here are some key benefits of using the BA-DS2424 Scale:
- Save Money on Shipping: Avoid overcharges with accurate weight calculations.
- Simple to Use: Laser tech and easy software simplify the process.
- Boost Efficiency: Automating the process lets you handle more packages with less effort.
- Durable and Reliable: Built for heavy use, it lasts a long time.
- Versatile: Works for businesses of all sizes in many industries.
The scale is built to last and can handle high-volume shipping environments for long-term use. This makes it a valuable investment for businesses that rely on accurate and efficient shipping processes.
Optimizing Order Fulfillment
Optimizing order fulfillment is crucial for efficient shipping operations.
The vMeasure Dimensional Weighing System can help achieve this goal, as seen in action.
This system can process a high volume of parcels, with a throughput rate of 300-350 parcels per hour.
This means businesses can handle a large number of orders quickly and accurately.
Measure Any Shapes and Sizes in Seconds
You can measure parcel dimensions with a dimensional weight scales app, which is super convenient and integrates with warehouse systems and shipping carriers.
Our mobile dimensioning app lets you measure parcel dimensions and weight instantly using your iPhone 13 Pro, making on-the-go dimensioning effortless.
To calculate dimensional weight, you need to measure the length, width, and height of the item you're shipping, and find the item's cubed dimensions if it's poly bags, tubes, or shrink-wrapped.
Use the dimensional weight formula: L x W x H inch / 139 (for U.S. domestic shipments) = dim weight in pounds.
You can use a dimensional weight calculator or a scale that automatically calculates dimensional weight, just input the dimensions and weight, and the software quickly calculates the dimensional weight based on carrier standards.
This helps avoid overcharging for shipping and ensures you're using the correct weight for your shipment.
Carrier and Pricing
Carriers use a standard divisor to calculate dimensional weight, which can vary by carrier. This means you'll need to check with your carrier to determine their divisor.
The greater of the actual weight or dimensional weight is typically used to price a shipment. This is why calculating dimensional weight is so important.
To calculate dimensional weight, you multiply a parcel's length by width by height and divide by the carrier's divisor.
Consequences and Best Practices

Overusing packing materials can lead to increased dimensional weight and higher shipping rates.
You'll be paying the higher price between dimensional weight and actual weight, which means if your package is lightweight but large, you'll be paying more.
Packing efficiency is key to avoiding unnecessary costs and waste, contributing to more sustainable shipping practices.
By focusing on packing efficiency, shippers can reduce their expenses and minimize their environmental impact.
Increased dimensional weight can result in higher shipping rates, so it's essential to pack your items carefully to avoid this issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to get dimensional weight?
To get dimensional weight, multiply the package's length, width, and height in inches, then divide by the DIM divisor. This calculation provides the package's dimensional weight in pounds.
Sources
- https://vmeasure.ai/dimensional-weight-scale/
- https://www.centralcarolinascale.com/dimensional-weight-measurement.htm
- https://shippingeasy.com/dimensional-weight-shipping-calculator/
- https://phasev.com/blog/dimensional-weighing-what-is-a-dimensional-weight-scale/
- https://bizautom.com/product/bizautom-ba-dws2424-laser-dimensional-scale-500x0-1lb-cap-with-printer-software/
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