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13.3. DIM Factor (Dimensional Weight Factor)
The DIM factor is a mathematical factor used to calculate the dimensional weight of an object. The
DIM factor represents the volume of a package allowed per unit of weight. Although mathematically
related, the DIM factor is different for measurements in units of inches/pounds and for
measurements in centimeters/ kilograms.
All major courier companies now apply the DIM Factor to every cuboidal (rectangular/ square) parcel
that they handle to determine the dimensional weight. They then adjust customer invoicing to reflect
charges based on the greater weight between actual weight and dimensional weight.
Finding a DIM Factor using in/lb
Find the DIM factor if each cubic foot (12”x12”x12”) has a minimum weight allowance of 10 pounds:
1 cu ft
12”x12”x12”
1728 in
3
10 lbs
10 lbs
10 lbs
172.8 in
3
/lb
Finding a DIM Factor using cm/kg
Find DIM factor if each cubic meter (100cm x 100cm x 100cm) has a minimum weight allowance of
200 kg:
1 m
3
100cm x100cm x100cm
1000000 cm
3
200 kg
200 kg
200 kg
5000 cm
3
/kg
13.4. Using DIM Factor (Dimensional Weight Factor)
The DIM Factor provides a quick determination of the dimensional weight of any cuboidal package.
The best way to describe this application is by an example of the application and use of the DIM
Factor by a courier company:
What is the billing rate of a 10”x 12”x 14” package that weighs 8 lbs by a courier that has a minimum
dimensional weight of 10 lbs per cubic foot (i.e.: DIM Factor = 172.8 in
3
/lb) ?
Volume
Volume
10x12x14
in
3
1680
in
3
lb
9.7 lb
DIM Factor
Volume / lb
172.8
in
3
/lb 172.8
in
3
The courier company will invoice based on 9.7 lbs – the dimensional weight.
"
This is an example. Some courier companies always round dimensional weight up to
the next pound, which in this sample would make the billing weight 10lbs.
