Dimensional weight (also known as dim weight) is a method used to calculate shipping costs based on the size of the package relative to its weight and it is charged directly by the carrier.

Larger packages take up more space in transportation, even if they are light, which limits the total number of packages that can be shipped. Therefore, carriers charge more for larger packages to account for the space they occupy.

To minimize costs, choose a box that closely matches the size of your product while allowing enough room for protective padding. Shipping a small, light item in a large box can increase charges, whereas shipping a heavy item in a smaller box can be more cost-effective.

The best option is to choose Carrier Provided Packages. Our platform will show a menu with carriers' flat rates and tabs for different package types, such as envelopes, boxes, and 'others.' These options are less likely to incur surcharges or dimensional weight fees, as they are shipping supplies provided by the carrier.

We recommend using a USPS Flat Rate package, a FedEx One Rate package, or a UPS Simple Rate package to avoid any addicional charges.

Carriers compare the dimensional weight with the actual weight of the package and charge based on whichever is greater. Proper packaging can help reduce shipping costs and environmental impact by minimizing material waste and lowering fuel emissions.

Dimensional weight is a pricing method used by carriers where the size of the package is compared to its actual weight. Regardless of weight, larger packages can cost more to ship due to the space they occupy.

Measure the package's length, width, and height, multiply these dimensions to get the cubic size, and then divide by the carrier’s dimensional factor (DIM divisor).

For UPS, the DIM divisor is 139 for measurements in inches and 5000 for measurements in centimeters.

FedEx uses a DIM divisor of 139 for measurements in inches, similar to UPS.

USPS applies dimensional weight pricing if the cubic size exceeds 1,728 cubic inches and uses a DIM divisor of 166. Packages smaller than 1,728 cubic inches may qualify for cubic pricing.

Carriers use the dimensional weight to account for the space large packages take up in their vehicles, limiting the number of packages that carriers can fit per vehicle.

Yes, using a too-large box for your product can increase shipping costs due to higher dimensional weight. Conversely, using a smaller box for a heavy item can reduce costs.

Use packaging that closely matches the size of your product with minimal extra space for padding, reducing the dimensional weight and potentially lowering shipping costs.