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No Responses September 1, 2025

How to Determine Chargeable Weight for Sea & Air Cargo Shipments

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Learn how to calculate chargeable weight for sea and air cargo shipments. Step-by-step guide for exporters and businesses with Singh International Xpress, Amritsar, Punjab.

⚖️ What is Chargeable Weight?

Chargeable weight is the weight used by shipping companies to calculate shipping charges. It is determined by comparing:

  • Actual Weight – the physical weight of your shipment

  • Volumetric Weight – based on the space your shipment occupies

The higher of the two becomes the chargeable weight.

This ensures the shipping line or courier is fairly compensated for both weight and space.

🧮 How to Calculate Chargeable Weight

Step 1: Measure Actual Weight

Weigh your shipment on a scale in kg or grams. Include packaging and pallets.

Step 2: Calculate Volumetric Weight

  • Air Cargo:
    Volumetric Weight (kg) = (Length × Width × Height) ÷ 5000 (cm)

  • Sea Cargo LCL:
    Volumetric Weight (kg) = CBM × Conversion Factor
    (1 CBM ≈ 1000 kg, varies by shipping line)

Step 3: Compare Both Weights

  • If Actual Weight > Volumetric Weight → Chargeable Weight = Actual Weight

  • If Actual Weight < Volumetric Weight → Chargeable Weight = Volumetric Weight

📊 Examples

Air Cargo

  • Package: 120 cm × 80 cm × 60 cm

  • Volume: 120 × 80 × 60 = 576,000 cm³

  • Volumetric Weight: 576,000 ÷ 5000 = 115.2 kg

  • Actual Weight: 100 kg → Chargeable Weight = 115.2 kg

Sea Cargo LCL

  • Package: 2 m × 1.5 m × 1 m = 3 CBM

  • Conversion Factor: 1 CBM ≈ 1000 kg

  • Volumetric Weight: 3 × 1000 = 3000 kg

  • Actual Weight: 2800 kg → Chargeable Weight = 3000 kg

✅ Tips for Exporters

  • Always include packaging and pallets in measurements.

  • Confirm divisor or CBM conversion factor with your courier or shipping line.

  • For irregular-shaped cargo, approximate dimensions carefully.

  • Keep a record of chargeable weight vs actual weight for cost calculation and export documentation.

📞 Singh International Xpress – Your Trusted Shipping Partner

We provide domestic and international courier and sea cargo services with accurate CBM, volumetric weight, and chargeable weight calculations.

Contact Us:
🌐 www.singhxpress.com
📱 +91 96465 55522 | +91 79867 01081
🏢 Amritsar, Punjab
Service: Singh International Xpress – Trusted Cargo & Courier Solutions