How volumetric weight works
Couriers charge for the space a parcel takes up as well as its weight. Volumetric weight = length × width × height (cm) ÷ divisor. Most international express couriers use a divisor of 5000; Turkish carriers use 3000 and call the result desi.
You pay for whichever is higher, the actual weight or the volumetric weight. Express couriers usually round the result up to the next 0.5 kg.
Examples
| Box (cm) | ÷ 5000 (kg) | Desi (÷ 3000) |
|---|---|---|
| 30 × 20 × 15 | 1.8 | 3 |
| 40 × 30 × 20 | 4.8 | 8 |
| 50 × 40 × 30 | 12 | 20 |
| 60 × 40 × 40 | 19.2 | 32 |
Cut what you pay for air
Light, bulky products such as pillows, toys and boxed goods are billed by volume. A box that fits the product is the easiest saving: the calculator shows what a slightly smaller box would weigh.