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Global Logistics

Metric Volumetric Weight (KG)

The world uses Kilograms and Centimeters. Learn the 5000 Divisor rule.

Convert CM to KG

The Formula

To find the volumetric weight in kg:
(Length x Width x Height in cm) / 5000

This applies to nearly all International Courier shipments (DHL, FedEx, USP). For general Air Freight, the divisor is often 6000, which is more favorable to the shipper.

5000 vs 6000: The Battle

Just like the 139 vs 166 debate in the US (lbs), the metric world fights between 5000 and 6000.

  • Divisor 5000: Used by Express Couriers (DHL Express, FedEx Int'l Priority). It equals a density requirement of 200 kg/m³. This is very dense. Most normal cargo will be charged by volume.
  • Divisor 6000: Used by Traditional Air Freight (Forwarders). It equals a density requirement of 167 kg/m³. This is the global air standard and is 20% cheaper than courier volume pricing.
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Conversion Hack: The 1:6 Ratio

Air Freight forwarders often talk about a "1 to 6" ratio. This means 1 ton of cargo = 6 cubic meters.

If you have 1,000 kg of lead, you are entitled to use up to 6 cubic meters of space without paying extra volume charges.
If you ship 6 CBM of feathers (which weigh 50kg), you will still be billed for "1,000 kg" (the volumetric equivalent of 6 CBM).

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Different countries, different divisors. Use our tool to unify your quotes.

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Glossary

Chargeable WeightThe final weight used for billing. Greater of Scale Weight vs Volumetric Weight.
CBMCubic Meter. 1m x 1m x 1m. The standard unit for ocean and air freight.
DeadweightAnother term for Actual Weight / Scale Weight.
Factor 167Another way to say "Divisor 6000". It refers to 167 kg per CBM.

Frequently Asked Questions

The standard formula is (Length x Width x Height in cm) / 5000. This gives you the volumetric weight in Kilograms (kg). Some carriers use a divisor of 6000, which is cheaper, but 5000 is the industry standard for express couriers like DHL, FedEx, and UPS.
You can calculate it directly in inches: (L x W x H in inches) / 305 = Weight in kg (approx). Alternatively, convert inches to cm (multiply by 2.54) and use the standard /5000 formula.
The divisor 5000 represents a density of 200 kg per cubic meter. If your cargo is lighter than 200kg/m³, you pay for volume. If it is heavier, you pay for actual weight.
Yes, but often with a divisor of 6000 (167 kg/m³) instead of 5000 (200 kg/m³). Always check your quote to see if the 'chargeable weight' is based on a 1:6 or 1:5 ratio.
Yes. 1,000,000 (cubic cm in a meter) / 6000 = 166.666 kg. This is why Air Freight is often quoted as 'Minimum density 167kg'.

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