Is it cheaper to ship by weight or size?

Factors Determining Shipping Costs: Weight vs. Size

When it comes to shipping, the cost can vary significantly based on the dimensions and weight of the package. Carriers utilize a concept known as dimensional weight to calculate shipping charges, which takes into account both the size and weight of the package.

Dimensional Weight vs. Actual Weight

Dimensional weight is calculated by multiplying the package's length, width, and height in inches and dividing by a predetermined factor specified by the carrier. This factor varies depending on the carrier and the type of shipment.

The actual weight, on the other hand, is the physical weight of the package when measured on a scale.

Higher of Two Figures Determines Cost

Carriers compare the dimensional weight to the actual weight and determine the shipping cost based on the higher of the two figures. This means that even if a package is light in actual weight, if it is bulky in size, resulting in a higher dimensional weight, it can incur higher shipping charges.

Impact on Bulky Items

This practice can impact the shipping costs of bulky items, even if they are relatively light. For instance, a large box filled with lightweight materials may have a low actual weight, but the dimensional weight could be significantly higher, leading to higher shipping costs.

Conclusion

When determining shipping costs, it is crucial to consider both the weight and size of the package. Carriers will calculate the dimensional weight and compare it to the actual weight, with the higher figure determining the cost. This can result in surprisingly expensive shipping charges for bulky items, regardless of their actual weight.