What is chargeable weight?
Aircraft space is limited, so airlines charge light but bulky cargo for the space it takes, not only for its weight. The chargeable weight is the actual gross weight or the volumetric weight, whichever is higher. The rate per kilo for the route is multiplied by the chargeable weight, and surcharges are added. Air freight rates explains the rest of the price.
Volumetric weight (kg) = length × width × height (cm) / 6,000
One cubic metre equals 167 kg of volumetric weight.
Example: one EUR pallet
A EUR pallet of 120 × 80 × 100 cm weighs 150 kg.
- Volume: 1.2 × 0.8 × 1.0 = 0.96 m³
- Volumetric weight: 120 × 80 × 100 / 6,000 = 160 kg
- Chargeable weight: 160 kg, because the volumetric weight is higher than the actual 150 kg
If the same pallet weighed 250 kg, the chargeable weight would be 250 kg.
How do I lower the chargeable weight?
- Pack tightly: less empty space in the boxes means less volume.
- Do not overhang the pallet: the widest point counts, including anything that sticks out.
- Check whether the pallet can be lower: a pallet that cannot be stacked takes the space above it on the aircraft too.
- Compare with sea or road: for heavy, non-urgent cargo sea freight or road freight can cost much less.
Measure correctly
Measure the outer dimensions of the packed shipment, including the pallet and any overhang, and round up to the next full centimetre. Weigh the shipment with its packaging. The airline or terminal measures every shipment at acceptance, and if the figures differ from the booking, theirs are used.
Updated 14 October 2026 · Reviewed by Artem Tchervonni, Managing Director