How to Distinguish Between Volumetric Cargo and Heavy Cargo

In international logistics, shipping costs are not only determined by the actual weight of goods, but also by the space they occupy. Therefore, cargo is typically classified into volumetric cargo and heavy cargo to ensure fair and reasonable pricing.

1. What is Volumetric Cargo?

Volumetric cargo (also known as light cargo) refers to shipments where the volumetric weight exceeds the actual weight. These goods are usually large in size but light in weight, such as pillows or foam products.

Formula:
Volumetric Weight (kg) = Length (cm) × Width (cm) × Height (cm) ÷ Dimensional Factor

• Express courier: 5000
• Air/Sea freight: 6000

If the calculated volumetric weight is greater than the actual weight, the shipment is charged based on volumetric weight.

2. What is Heavy Cargo?

Heavy cargo refers to shipments where the actual weight is equal to or greater than the volumetric weight. These are typically dense goods such as metal products or machinery.

Charging rule: Freight is calculated based on actual weight.

Quick reference:
1 cubic meter ≈ 167 kg (based on factor 6000)
If weight exceeds 167 kg per CBM, it is generally considered heavy cargo.

3. Example

Actual weight: 500 kg
Volume: 1 CBM (100 × 100 × 100 cm)

Volumetric weight = 100 × 100 × 100 ÷ 6000 ≈ 166.67 kg

Since 500 kg > 166.67 kg, this shipment is classified as heavy cargo and charged by actual weight.

4. Types of Volumetric Charging

(1) No Volumetric Charge

Freight is charged based only on actual weight, regardless of size.

(2) Half Volumetric

Chargeable weight = (Actual Weight + Volumetric Weight) ÷ 2

(3) Full Volumetric

Chargeable weight = whichever is greater: actual weight or volumetric weight

This is the most commonly used method in international shipping.

5. Why Classify Cargo?

Shipping costs are influenced by both weight and space:

• Heavy cargo: high weight, small space
• Volumetric cargo: low weight, large space

If all shipments were charged only by weight, large but lightweight cargo would occupy excessive space and lead to losses for carriers. Therefore, volumetric pricing ensures a fair balance.

6. Summary

7. Practical Tips

• Always measure dimensions accurately before shipping
• Confirm the dimensional factor with your logistics provider
• Choose the most suitable shipping method based on cargo characteristics

8. Logistics Solution Recommendation

Choosing the right shipping method can significantly reduce costs and improve efficiency.

PassionshipCN provides professional international logistics solutions, including:

• Air freight, sea freight, and express services
• Dedicated solutions for volumetric cargo
• Professional support for optimizing shipping plans

Whether you are an e-commerce seller or a traditional trader, we can tailor a cost-effective logistics solution for your needs.

Contact us today for a quote or expert advice.