What is Chargeable Weight?
Chargeable weight is the weight on which freight is billed, taken as the greater of the shipment's actual gross weight and its volumetric (dimensional) weight. In air cargo the IATA convention converts volume to weight by dividing the volume in cubic centimetres by 6,000, which equals 1 kilogram per 6,000 cubic centimetres or about 166.67 kilograms per cubic metre. A bulky, light shipment is therefore charged on its volume, while a dense one is charged on its actual weight. Sea freight applies the same principle through the weight or measurement rule for LCL and break bulk, where rates are commonly charged per revenue ton of one metric ton or one cubic metre, whichever is greater. Some express and road carriers use different conversion factors, so the divisor should always be checked in the tariff or contract.
Why it matters for forwarders
Chargeable weight errors are a leading cause of invoice disputes, usually because dimensions were estimated at booking and the airline or handling agent re-measured at acceptance. Measure the outer dimensions of each piece, including pallets and overhangs, and use the longest points, since that is how acceptance staff measure. Stackability and pallet design can change the chargeable weight significantly, so advising shippers on packaging and consolidation often saves more than negotiating the rate. The chargeable weight also determines which weight break in the rate sheet applies, so a slightly heavier chargeable weight can sometimes reduce the total cost. Make sure the gross weight and chargeable weight on the house and master air waybills are consistent, because discrepancies delay acceptance and customs release.