The divisor decides how expensive your bulky cargo is. A larger divisor is friendlier to light, bulky goods.
Divisors vary by carrier, service and contract, and they change. The table lists the values built into our calculator and where they are typically seen. Always confirm with your rate card.
Divisor
Unit
Typically seen on
1 m³ equals
5000
cm³ / kg
International express (e.g. DHL, FedEx, UPS, TNT services)
200 kg
6000
cm³ / kg
Air freight, EMS and many international lines
167 kg
4000
cm³ / kg
Some air freight or special lines
250 kg
8000
cm³ / kg
Some economy lines
125 kg
1000
kg per m³
Sea LCL (1 CBM = 1,000 kg)
1,000 kg
139
in³ / lb
US domestic services of some carriers
≈ 439 lb
166
in³ / lb
International and some postal services
≈ 368 lb
How to read a divisor
With divisor 5000, every 5,000 cm³ of space is billed like 1 kg. A 1 m³ pallet is 1,000,000 cm³, so it is billed like 200 kg even if it is lighter.
How to confirm yours
Check the volumetric rule in your rate card or service terms.
Ask your account manager or forwarder which divisor and rounding apply to each service.
Compare two services with the calculator: switch the divisor and see the chargeable weight change.
Frequently asked questions
Is 5000 always the divisor for express?
No. It is common, but services and contracts differ. Use the divisor in your own rate card.
Why is the sea divisor 1000?
For LCL, one cubic metre is commonly treated as one tonne (1,000 kg) when comparing volume with weight.
For reference only. Not customs, legal, tax or financial advice. Not affiliated with any marketplace, carrier or customs authority. Updated: 2026-10-14.
