Determining Dim Weight First, use a tape measure or ruler to find the length, width and height of a package. Even if the shipments are poly bags, tubes or shrink-wrapped items, shippers still need the cubed dimensions. This is where calculating dimensional weight can get a little tricky, as manually measuring an invisible cubed shape around an irregular object may be inaccurate. A dimensioner uses imaging technology and sensors to create the cubed shape, accurately capturing information for irregularly shaped packages.
The Formula for Dimensional Weight Once the length, width and height are found, dimensional weight can be calculated using the dimensional weight formula. To calculate dim weight, multiply the shipment’s length by its width and height, in inches. Then, divide it by the DIM factor established by the carrier, typically 139. The result is the package’s dimensional weight in pounds.

Accurate Shipping with Dimensioners

After calculating dimensional weight, determine if the shipment's dimensional or actual weight is greater. The shipping carrier will charge based on the greater of the two, so it’s important to compare. Use the greater number to check shipping rates and shop around for the best deal.

If you’re unsure how to calculate dimensional weight or struggle to meet shipping guidelines, ask the person who knows it best—your carrier! Ask your carrier what’s needed for dimensional weighing guidelines and how to dispute a chargeback due to dimensional weight. If you can prove the dimensions of your package from a dimensioning system’s images, that’s more information to help correct any fees or mistakes on your bill.

Rice Lake Weighing Systems Has Versatile Dimensioning Solutions

To optimize operations with an accurate and efficient solution to dimensioning, consider investing in an automatic dimensioner. Rice Lake’s iDimension® Series captures measurements in record time, featuring the latest in dimensioning technology to provide easy-to-use, Legal for Trade solutions.