Glossary · Weights
Chargeable weight
The weight you actually get billed for: the greater of gross and volumetric.
Technical definition
Chargeable weight = max(gross weight, volumetric weight). Volumetric weight is obtained by dividing volume (cm³) by the standard air factor of 6,000 (≈167 kg/m³). Light, bulky cargo 'pays by volume'.
In plain terms
The airline charges on the greater of what your cargo weighs (gross weight) and what it takes up (volumetric weight). That greater figure is the chargeable weight.
How it works in Chile
Critical for perishables: a box of cherries has weight, but the build-up and the insulated packaging add volume. Getting chargeable weight right up front avoids surprises on the export rate.
Common mistakes
- Quoting on gross weight alone and getting caught out by the volumetric.
- Using a volumetric factor different from the one the airline applies.
- Ignoring the volume of packaging and pallets.
How it connects to Skymetrics
Use the Skymetrics volumetric weight calculator to estimate chargeable weight before closing your booking, and the ULD calculator to see whether you'll be limited by weight or by volume.