How is air freight chargeable weight calculated?
For standard air freight, compare the shipment’s gross weight with its volumetric weight. The higher figure is normally the starting point for the freight calculation. Gross weight includes packaging and the pallet; a light but bulky shipment may therefore be charged above its scale weight.
Example volumetric rule: length × width × height in centimetres ÷ 6,000. Confirm the carrier’s divisor, aggregation and rounding rules before booking. Express courier products may use a different divisor; do not transfer their calculation to a freight quote automatically.
Boxes and pallets: worked chargeable-weight examples
| Shipment | Packed dimensions | Gross weight | Volumetric weight | Example chargeable weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One box | 60 × 40 × 40 cm | 12 kg | 16 kg | 16 kg |
| Four identical boxes | 60 × 40 × 40 cm each | 80 kg total | 64 kg total | 80 kg |
| One packed pallet | 120 × 80 × 100 cm | 100 kg | 160 kg | 160 kg |
Measure the outermost points, including the pallet, overhang and protection. Non-stackable, oversized or specialised cargo may need a separate quotation. The table does not prove acceptance on a particular aircraft.
What does the weight mean for the price?
Using the OnShip24 planning basis of EUR 8.50 per chargeable kg, the 160 kg pallet example gives EUR 1,360 for the main transport allowance. This is a calculation example, not a live airline quote. Minimum charges, screening, terminal handling, collection, customs and delivery must be checked in the written proposal.
What should you send with an air freight request?
Boxes and individual pieces
List the quantity, packed measurements and weight of each size. Identify fragile contents and any items that cannot be stacked.
Pallets and crates
Include the base and any overhang. Confirm forklift access, lifting points and whether another load can safely be placed above.
Specialist cargo
Vehicles, batteries, dangerous goods and temperature-sensitive shipments need technical details and specific acceptance. Standard kg examples are not a vehicle quotation.
Documents and acceptance before dispatch
Provide a precise description of the contents, the collection and delivery addresses, and your required date. For commercial goods, prepare invoice and packing information and identify the receiving party. Flag batteries, liquids and other potentially restricted contents before collection so classification, packing and acceptance can be checked.
A flight duration is not a delivery promise: screening, connection time, release and the final land leg must also be planned.
Send your package list, measurements and addresses.
Request an air freight quote →