Pietra will charge you based on the scale weight or dimensional weight of your package, based on the packages dimensions, scale weight, and the Shipping Zone of the destination.
How will I know if dimensional weight will apply to my shipment?
Dimensional (or "dim") weight may apply to your shipment depending on the size of your package and the carrier used. Most carriers calculate shipping charges based on the greater of:
Actual Weight (the weight of the item on a scale)
orDimensional Weight (a calculation based on the size of the package)
To determine if dim weight will apply, follow the steps below.
How is Dimensional Weight calculated?
To determine the Dim Weight of your package, use this formula:
Dim Weight = (Length × Width × Height) ÷ Dim Factor
Measurements should be in inches.
Round each measurement up to the nearest whole inch.
If the result is higher than the actual weight, the shipment will be generally charged based on dim weight.
This means your shipping charge will be based on the corresponding dim weight rather than the scale weight in the applicable rate card.
Take note that each carrier uses a different Dim Factor (see below).
Dim Weight Rules by Carrier
Carrier | Dim Factor | How Charges Are Calculated |
DHL Express International | 139 | Charge based on the greater of dimensional or actual weight |
DHL eCommerce International | 166 | Charge based on the greater of dimensional or actual weight |
DHL eCommerce Domestic (Ground, Expedited, Expedited Max) | 166 | - If (L × W × H) < 1,728 cubic inches → charge actual weight |
UPS Domestic (Ground, 2nd Day Air) | 166 | Charge based on the greater of dimensional or actual weight |
UPS International (Expedited Worldwide) | 166 | Charge based on the greater of dimensional or actual weight |
Passport International | 139 | Charge based on the greater of dimensional or actual weight |
Default / All Other Carriers | 166 | Charge based on the greater of dimensional or actual weight |
Example: Calculating Dim Weight of a 12" x 12" x 12" box
A box that’s 12" × 12" × 12" has a volume of 1,728 cubic inches. To determine the dimensional weight, divide 1,728 cubic inches by the applicable dim factor. Then, review How Charges Are Calculated for the applicable carrier to determine if Dim Weight will apply.
Generally, if the result is greater than than scale weight, Dim Weight will apply
If you’re not sure whether dim weight will apply to your shipment, use the formula above to compare both weights—or reach out to our support team. We're happy to help you determine your shipment’s billable weight.