Dimensional Weight Calculator
Calculate DIM weight for UPS, FedEx, and USPS shipping with accurate pricing formulas
Package Measurements
Measure the longest, widest, and tallest points of your package
Affects UPS dimensional factor calculation
Dimensional Weight Results
Billable Weights (Higher of Actual or DIM Weight)
Size & Weight Restrictions
Example: Coat Hanger Shipping
Package Details
Dimensions: 70 × 14 × 14 inches
Actual weight: 10 lbs
Volume: 13,720 cubic inches
Dimensional Weights
FedEx: 13,720 ÷ 139 = 98.7 lbs
UPS (Retail): 13,720 ÷ 166 = 82.7 lbs
USPS: 13,720 ÷ 166 = 82.7 lbs
All carriers charge for DIM weight (higher than 10 lbs)
DIM Factors by Carrier
UPS
Daily Rates: 139 (in/lb), 5000 (cm/kg)
Retail Rates: 166 (in/lb), 5000 (cm/kg)
FedEx
All services: 139 (in/lb), 5000 (cm/kg)
USPS
All services: 166 (in/lb), 5000 (cm/kg)
Not applied if under 1 cubic foot
Money-Saving Tips
Use custom packaging to minimize dimensions
Choose lightweight packaging materials
Measure accurately - round up hurts pricing
Compare all carriers - DIM weights vary
Consider flat-rate boxes for heavy items
Understanding Dimensional Weight
What is Dimensional Weight?
Dimensional weight (DIM weight) is a pricing technique that considers both the size and weight of a package. Shipping companies use this to charge fairly for large, lightweight packages that take up valuable truck space.
Why DIM Weight Matters
- •Prevents unprofitable shipping of large, light packages
- •Encourages efficient packaging design
- •Affects final shipping costs significantly
- •Applied industry-wide since 2015
DIM Weight Formula
DIM Weight = (L × W × H) ÷ DIM Factor
- L, W, H: Length, width, height dimensions
- DIM Factor: Carrier-specific divisor
- Billable Weight: Higher of actual or DIM weight
- Units: Must be consistent (inches/pounds or cm/kg)
Important: Always measure the outer dimensions of your package, including any bulges or irregular shapes.
Carrier Comparison & Strategy
| Carrier | DIM Factor (in/lb) | DIM Factor (cm/kg) | Weight Limit | Size Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UPS Daily | 139 | 5000 | 150 lbs / 70 kg | 108 in / 274 cm |
| UPS Retail | 166 | 5000 | 150 lbs / 70 kg | 108 in / 274 cm |
| FedEx | 139 | 5000 | 150 lbs / 70 kg | 108 in / 274 cm |
| USPS | 166 | 5000 | 70 lbs / 32 kg | 130 in combined |