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Volumetric Weight Calculator for Canada Post
This tool calculates the volumetric weight of a package shipped via Canada Post using the length, width and height. It's great for sellers that want to see if their dim weight is higher than the actual weight.
Volumetric Weight Calculator
Length:
Width:
Height:
Unit:
Results
Regular parcel:
0
All other services:
0
Examples
Scenario 1:
You have a package measuring 37cm x 22cm x 12cm.
...
To calculate the volume, the formula is L x W x H. So using that formula, we substitute our values:
37cm x 22cm x 12cm = 9768cm³
With the total volume, we use the volumetric weight divisors to the get the volumetric weight in kilograms. For regular parcel measured in centimeters, the divisor is 6000.
9768cm³ / 6000 = 1.628kg
For all other services measured in centimeters, the divisor is 5000.
9768cm³ / 5000 = 1.954kg
...
This means the volumetric weight will be used to bill your shipment if the actual package weight is less than 1.628kg (regular parcel) or 1.954kg (all other services). Canada Post always takes the higher of the two values (volumetric vs actual).
Scenario 2:
You have a package measuring 14in x 10in x 8in.
...
To calculate the volume, the formula is L x W x H. So using that formula, we substitute our values:
14in x 10in x 8in = 1120in³
With the total volume, we use the volumetric weight divisors to the get the volumetric weight in kilograms. For regular parcel measured in inches, the divisor is 166.
1120in³ / 166 = 6.747lb
For all other services measured in inches, the divisor is 139.
1120in³ / 139 = 8.058lb
...
This means the volumetric weight will be used to bill your shipment if the actual package weight is less than 6.747lb (regular parcel) or 8.058lb (all other services). Canada Post always takes the higher of the two values (volumetric vs actual).
Extra Photos
FAQs
What is the difference between dimensional and volumetric weight?
Nothing. They all refer to the exact same concept, only difference is the name.
What is the actual weight?
Actual weight refers to the number displayed on a scale when you place your package onto it. Volumetric weight refers to an artificial weight value obtained by multiplying the length, width and height dimensions of the package, then dividing by a special number.
Common pitfalls to avoid
Avoid...
Not rounding up dimensions
Because...
It will cost you eventually
Further explained...
When measuring package dimensions to purchase a shipping label, always round up to the nearest whole number for each dimension (8.5cm -> 9cm). This ensures you have some leeway if the Canada Post automated cameras measure dimensions slightly greater than what you inputted when you bought the label (for example, you measured 8.4cm on one dimension but their cameras measured 8.6cm). Disputing shipping rate adjustments is a huge hassle and time sink, so it is always better to round up your measurements when buying a shipping label.
When this calculator can't help you...
This calculator is calibrated specifically for shipments via Canada Post. If you are shipping using a different carrier, the results will be inaccurate, so you may wish to check out our Calculators hub to see if we have a section specific to the carrier you plan to use.
Related pages
Data sources
How to cube an item and calculate the VE of its actual weight | Canada Post
Author: Canada Post
Publisher: Canada Post
Published: N/A
Accessed: 18 Jan. 2026
Examples of how to cube an item and calculate the VE of its actual weight | Canada Post
Author: Canada Post
Publisher: Canada Post
Published: N/A
Accessed: 18 Jan. 2026
