Calculate shipping costs based on package weight, dimensions, and carrier-specific rates. Compare dimensional weight pricing across USPS, UPS, and FedEx.
Shipping costs are determined by multiple factors including package weight, dimensions, destination distance, and carrier-specific rates. Understanding dimensional weight pricing is crucial for accurate cost estimation and optimizing your shipping strategy.
Dimensional (DIM) weight is a pricing method used by carriers to account for the space a package occupies in transport vehicles, not just its actual weight. Carriers charge based on whichever is greater: actual weight or dimensional weight.
DIM Weight Formula
DIM Weight = (Length × Width × Height) ÷ DIM Factor
All dimensions in inches
Each carrier uses a specific divisor (DIM factor) to calculate dimensional weight. Lower factors result in higher dimensional weights and potentially higher costs.
USPS (United States Postal Service)
166
Applies to packages over 1 cubic foot (1,728 cubic inches)
Most economical for ground shipping
UPS (United Parcel Service)
139
Standard for domestic and international shipments
Retail rates may use 166
FedEx
139
Consistent across domestic and international
Same factor since 2017
Package Weight
Actual weight vs dimensional weight - carriers charge based on whichever is greater.
Package Dimensions
Length, width, and height determine dimensional weight. Larger packages cost more even if lightweight.
Shipping Distance (Zones)
Carriers divide the country into zones. Greater distance means higher zone number and cost.
Delivery Speed
Faster delivery options (overnight, 2-day) cost significantly more than ground shipping.
Additional Services
Insurance, signature confirmation, and special handling add to the base shipping cost.
Each carrier has strengths for different shipping scenarios:
USPS - Best for Small, Light Packages
Most economical for packages under 1 lb, flat-rate options, and residential delivery
UPS - Best for Business Shipping
Reliable tracking, good for heavier packages, strong business account discounts
FedEx - Best for Express Shipping
Fastest delivery options, excellent for time-sensitive shipments, strong international network
Explore other e-commerce and business calculators:
Determine optimal product pricing
Calculate profit margins and markups
Calculate Shopify store profits
Calculate eBay selling fees
Calculate Amazon FBA costs
Calculate dropshipping profits