Does FedEx Charge by Size or Weight?
Does FedEx Charge by Size or Weight? Shipping a package can be a stressful task, particularly when considering the cost. However, having a detailed knowledge of how shipping works can make it easier.
When shipping with FedEx, many customers ask if they would be charged based on the size or weight of their product.
Understanding how FedEx charges for shipping depending on size and weight might help you determine the cost of sending your box properly.
Does FedEx Charge by Size or Weight?
FedEx charges for shipping based on both the size and weight of the package.
They use dimensional weight to determine the cost of shipping bigger, lightweight products, and actual weight to determine the cost of delivering smaller, heavier packages.
This is because larger products require more room on an aircraft, truck, or train than smaller, denser goods.
This implies they cost more to ship even if they weigh less.
How FedEx Calculates Dimensional Weight
FedEx calculates the cost of transporting a box using a method known as “dimensional weight.”
This implies that if your shipment is huge yet light, you will be paid according to its size rather than its weight.
This is because larger products require more room on an aircraft, truck, or train than smaller, denser goods.
FedEx calculates the volume of your box (length x width x height) in cubic inches and divides that figure by a dimensional weight divisor to obtain the dimensional weight of your shipment.
FedEx Express and FedEx Ground, for example, use a dimensional weight divisor of 139 for domestic shipments, whereas FedEx SmartPost uses a divisor of 166.
What is the Actual Weight of a Box?
If your shipment is little and heavy, you will be charged for the actual weight of the box. This is the weight of the box alone, without including its dimensions.
Depending on the delivery carrier, actual weight is measured in pounds or kilograms.
If the actual weight of your shipment exceeds its dimensional weight, you will be charged for the difference.
If the dimensional weight is more than the actual weight, you will be charged for the difference.
How to Determine Shipping Costs
To calculate the cost of FedEx delivery, you must know both the actual weight and the dimensional weight of your shipment.
You can use a scale to determine the actual weight of your package, and a simple calculation to get the dimensional weight.
Assume you’re sending a box that measures 20″ x 10″ x 8″ and weighs 5 pounds.
To determine the dimensional weight, multiply the length, width, and height of the package by the volume: 1,600 cubic inches = 20 x 10 x 8.
Then, divide that number by your shipping service’s dimensional weight divisor: 1,600 / 139 = 11.51.
This signifies that your package’s dimensional weight is 12 pounds, which is more than its actual weight. As a result, you’d be charged based on the dimensional weight.
To save money on shipping, be sure to measure and weigh your package accurately, and choose the right shipping service.
