Direct freight answer · reviewed August 2026
How do I calculate dimensional weight for FedEx, UPS, DHL, or USPS?
Use finished package dimensions, the divisor for the exact service, and actual packed weight to find the planning chargeable weight.
Short answer
Multiply the outside length, width, and height of the finished parcel, divide by the carrier or contract divisor, and compare the result with actual packed weight. The larger eligible weight normally controls before the carrier's measurement and billing-rounding rules.
Run the numbers
Dimensional Weight Calculator
Start with the prefilled example, then replace it with your finished package, pallet, or cargo lines.
Your inputs
Live resultAdd parcel count, divisor or roundingOptional
5,000 cm³/kg
A defensible workflow
Check these four things before you trust the result.
- Measure the sealed outside parcel, not the product or an empty carton.
- Select the unit system and divisor that match the carrier service and rate card.
- Compare dimensional weight with scale weight and apply the per-parcel rounding rule.
- Run a packaging test if dimensional weight controls the quote.