Volume and volumetric weight calculator
Enter the outer measurements of your box and instantly calculate liters, cubic meters, volumetric weight, and estimated billable weight.
Quick calculation
Choose a measurement or enter your own
Use centimeters for dimensions. You can enter decimals with a comma (e.g., 38,5). The actual weight is optional and helps estimate what weight would be charged.
Frequent sizes
The divisor changes depending on the agency, service, and contract. The value 5000 is often used as a reference for many shipments.
Results
Volume
— litersCubic capacity
— m³Volumetric weight
— kgBillable weight
— estimated kgTip: enter length, width, and height to see the result.
With the result in hand, choose a box that fits – don't just stick to the number.
Calculating the volumetric weight of a package is essential before booking a shipment. Agencies like GLS, SEUR, Correos, DHL, or MRW may charge based on the actual weight or the volumetric weight, whichever is greater.
The formula (liters, m³, and conversion factor) is detailed in the guide on how to calculate the volume of a cardboard box.
With this calculator, you can enter your box measurements in centimeters and instantly get the volume in liters, cubic capacity in cubic meters, and volumetric weight according to the chosen divisor factor.
What is volumetric weight and why does it matter?
Volumetric weight converts the size of a package into billable kilograms. It is calculated by dividing the volume of the package, length × width × height in centimeters, by a divisor factor. If this result exceeds the actual weight, the carrier may charge by volume.
That's why a 60 × 40 × 40 cm box with light clothing can cost more than expected: with a factor of 5000, its volumetric weight is 19.2 kg even if the contents weigh only 5 kg. Choosing the right size box helps reduce costs on every shipment.
How to calculate the cubic capacity of a box?
Cubic capacity in cubic meters is obtained by multiplying the three outer dimensions of the box and dividing by 1,000,000 when the measurements are in centimeters. A 40 × 30 × 30 cm box has 36,000 cm³, which means 36 liters or 0.036 m³.
Divisor factors by carrier
Divisors can vary by contract, country, and service. This table serves as a general reference to review your rates.
| Carrier | Common divisor factor | Service type |
|---|---|---|
| SEUR | 5,000 | National |
| GLS | 5,000 | National |
| MRW | 5,000 | National |
| Correos Express | 5,000 | National |
| DHL Express | 5,000 | International |
| UPS | 5,000 | International |
| FedEx | 5,000 | International |
Tips for reducing the volumetric weight of your shipments
- Use the snuggest box possible: every extra centimeter increases the volume and can raise the cost.
- Fill empty space: if you can't find the exact size, use kraft paper or packing peanuts to better protect the product.
- Consider padded envelopes: for flat and light products, a bubble padded envelope can be more efficient than an oversized box.
Frequently asked questions about volumetric weight
What is the difference between actual weight and volumetric weight?
Actual weight is what the scale shows. Volumetric weight is calculated using the package dimensions. Many carriers charge based on the greater of the two values.
How are cubic meters of a box calculated?
Multiply length × width × height in centimeters and divide by 1,000,000. For example, 50 × 40 × 30 cm is 60,000 cm³, which is 0.06 m³.
What divisor factor do carriers in Spain use?
Many national agencies use 5,000 as a reference, although it may change by contract or service. Some economy or international shipments may apply 6,000, and certain contracts may use 4,000.
How to reduce the cost by volumetric weight?
The key is to use a box proportional to the product. It also helps to protect without oversizing and choose padded envelopes for flat or less bulky items.
Can I calculate non-standard boxes?
Yes. Enter the actual outer measurements, even if it's a custom, recycled, or special format box. If you need an exact measurement, consult our custom cardboard boxes service.
Find a box that fits your product
At Telecajas, we have over 200 box sizes for shipping, moving, and storage. Choosing the right size better protects and avoids paying for air.
