My carrier gave me a divisor that is not in the list: how do I enter it?
Type your carrier's number in Divisor value, then set Divisor basis to match how the carrier states it: cm³ per kg, or in³ per lb. The list switches to Custom divisor by itself. The tool accepts any positive number up to one million and does not judge whether it is right for your carrier.
The basis matters more than the number
The number on its own is not enough, because its meaning depends on the unit. 4000 in cm³ per kg is one thing; the same 4000 in in³ per lb is something else entirely. So read the carrier's full sentence. If it says length × width × height in centimetres ÷ 4000, the basis is cm³ per kg. If it mentions inches and pounds, it is the other one.
Example: a 4000 divisor with the right and wrong basis
A 60 × 40 × 40 cm carton weighing 10 kg, with 4000 in centimetres and kilos from the carrier, used here as an example:
- With the right basis, cm³ per kg: volumetric weight 24 kg (52.91 lb), which is the chargeable weight.
- With the same number but in³ per lb chosen by mistake: volumetric weight only 0.66 kg, so the actual 10 kg applies.
- For comparison, 5000 from the list gives 19.2 kg for the same carton.
The wrong basis made the parcel look as if it would be billed at 10 kg when the real figure is 24. Quote a customer shipping on 10 and the difference comes out of your profit. That is why the tool always shows the basis next to the divisor, and includes it in the copied text.
Steps
- Open the Volumetric shipping-weight calculator and enter the parcel's dimensions and weight.
- Type your carrier's number in Divisor value. If it matches a value in the list the tool selects it for you; otherwise Custom divisor appears.
- Under Divisor basis, pick the unit exactly as it appears in the carrier's terms.
- If you get a very strange weight, far below the actual weight or several times above it, check the basis first.
When you meet an unusual divisor
It happens with negotiated contracts for large volumes, with road freight services, or with forwarders that run their own policy. Wherever it comes from, keep the number written down with its basis, use that same figure in every calculation, and feed the result into your pricing with the Selling-price calculator. If the contract changes, update your figures straight away.
Common questions
Does the tool remember my custom divisor next time?
No, it starts from the built-in example on every visit, so keep your number in your notes.
Can I enter a decimal divisor?
Yes, any positive number up to 1,000,000.
Why does the tool not warn me when the number looks odd?
It does not know your carrier's terms. It calculates exactly what you enter, and checking the number is up to you.