What is actual weight?
Actual weight is the package's physical scale weight after packing.
What is dimensional weight?
Dimensional (DIM) weight is calculated from length × width × height divided by a carrier/service factor.
DIM weight = package volume ÷ divisorWhich one is used?
Many parcel and express services compare actual weight with dimensional weight. The larger value is an important rating input, although the final billed weight can also depend on service-specific rounding, minimums, packaging rules and surcharges.
Example
A package actually weighs 12 kg. Its dimensions are 60 × 40 × 35 cm and the service uses a 5000 divisor, producing 16.8 kg DIM weight. The dimensional value is larger, so it is the comparison value before applying the carrier's remaining rules.
How to reduce dimensional weight
DIM weight is driven by outside package volume. Removing unnecessary empty space, choosing a better-fitting carton and measuring the final packed box can reduce the calculated value without changing the product itself.
Why final package measurements matter
Do not rely only on a manufacturer's carton specification when your shipping package adds padding, overboxing or palletization. Use the final outside dimensions when preparing shipment records and related paperwork.