01.The volumetric weight formula
Most Indian couriers and aggregators calculate volumetric weight like this:
| Step | Formula |
|---|---|
| Volumetric weight (kg) | Length × Width × Height (cm) ÷ 5000 |
| Chargeable weight | Higher of actual weight and volumetric weight |
| Billed weight | Chargeable weight rounded up to the next slab, often 0.5 kg |
Some couriers use 4000 or 6000 instead of 5000. Your rate card states the divisor.
02.How packaging changes your shipping cost
Garments compress well, so the pack decides the slab. Comparing two packs of the same kurti (hypothetical):
| Pack | Size (cm) | Actual | Volumetric | Slab |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Box | 30 × 25 × 5 | 0.4 kg | 0.75 kg | 1.0 kg |
| Tight flyer | 25 × 20 × 3 | 0.35 kg | 0.30 kg | 0.5 kg |
The Meesho shipping calculator compares two packing options side by side. Always declare true sizes and weights; under-declaring leads to penalties and disputes.
03.CBM for cartons and freight
For bulk cartons, exports or freight, volume is measured in cubic metres (CBM).
| Measure | Formula |
|---|---|
| CBM per carton | L × W × H in metres (or cm ÷ 1,000,000) |
| Total CBM | CBM per carton × number of cartons |
| Air volumetric weight | CBM × 1,000,000 ÷ 6000 = kg |
A 20 ft container holds roughly 33 CBM internally and a 40 ft roughly 67 CBM, but real loads fit less because of packing gaps.
04.From weight to rupees
Once you know the billed slab, add your rate card, fuel surcharge, COD fee and 18% GST to get the full courier charge. The courier charges calculator does this, and the RTO calculator shows what failed deliveries add on top.
