Two different measurements
Actual weight is measured on a scale. Volumetric weight represents the space occupied by the packed goods. Our reference model uses length × width × height in centimetres divided by 6000. The chargeable weight for the kilogram-based estimates is the greater of actual and volumetric weight. Measure the outside of the final packaging, not the product alone.
A light parcel can have a higher chargeable weight
For a 5 kg parcel measuring 60 × 40 × 50 cm, volumetric weight is 120,000 ÷ 6000 = 20 kg. The kilogram-based routes therefore use 20 kg in the estimate. Under the indicative Ukraine general-goods air rate of CNY 80/kg, freight is CNY 1,600 before any agreed extra costs. This example is not a confirmed shipping offer.
Sea shipping to Moldova uses cubic metres
The same carton occupies 0.12 m³: 60 × 40 × 50 ÷ 1,000,000. The indicative general-goods sea model to Moldova has a minimum of 1 m³ at USD 500/m³, so the example estimates USD 500 in sea freight. It does not use the 20 kg figure, and USD must stay separate from CNY unless an exchange rate has been agreed.
How to prepare useful measurements
Measure after padding and external packaging are included. Add up to 10 cartons to the calculator and enter the weight and dimensions of each separately. Weight-based routes compare actual and volumetric weight for each carton; sea shipping to Moldova uses their combined volume. Consolidation or repacking requires new measurements. Ask before removing product boxes, as packaging may protect the goods or be needed for resale. Final warehouse measurements and route terms determine the confirmed quote.
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Sources and further reading
The examples use this site’s reference calculator. Confirm the final route, measurements and price with the team.
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