4) How is chargeable weight calculated for air shipments?

The chargeable weight of cargo intended for air shipment is the actual gross weight (gw) or the volume weight (vw), whichever is greater. Of course, the gw is the figure that is indicated outright on a cargo weighing scale as a carton or a box of cargo is weighed thereon. The vw is calculated based on a cargo’s size, measurement or dimensions, and with the use of the following formula:

Using the English System: L x W x H in inches (in.) / 165 = vw (in lbs.)

Using the Metric System: L x W x H in centimeters (cm.) / 6,000 = vw (in kgs.)

Remember that 166 and 6,000 are the constant factors when calculating the vw in lbs. and kgs., respectively.