Understanding volumetric weight in international shipping

When shipping internationally, carriers charge based on whichever is greater: the actual weight or the volumetric (dimensional) weight of your package.

What is volumetric weight?

Volumetric weight reflects how much space a package takes up in relation to its actual weight. It’s calculated using the formula:

Volumetric Weight (kg) = (Length × Width × Height in cm) ÷ 5,000

Example: A box that measures 50 × 40 × 30 cm would have a volumetric weight of (50×40×30)/5000 = 12 kg.

What are volumetric weights of Kfriday's boxes?

Here is a list of some of the boxes we use at Kfriday:

• Size 22 x 17 x 6 cm³ → VW 0.45kg (Billable 0.5kg) *For very small items like this, we often use bubble packs.
• Size 23 x 16 x 15 cm³ → VW 1.1kg (Billable 1.5kg)
• Size 34 x 28 x 13 cm3 → VW 2.5kg (Billable 2.5kg)
• Size 40 x 30 x 20 cm³ → VW 4.8kg (Billable 5.0kg)
• Size 60 x 40 x 20 cm³ → VW 9.6kg (Billable 10.0kg)
• Size 70 x 45 x 25 cm³ → VW 15.8kg (Billable 16.0kg)
• Size 70 x 45 x 50 cm³ → VW 31.5kg (Billable 32.0kg) *For large boxes like this, we always use doubled-layered cardboard boxes for best protection.
• You can check how much each box will cost for international shipping via our shipping calculator.

The above list is not comprehensive by all means. We have boxes of all kinds of sizes at our disposal.

Our packing team always chooses the lowest volume packs or boxes when consolidating your goods. We do not overpack because that will cost you more than necessary.

We use a variety of boxes, including those from Korea Post.

Making the most of volumetric weight

While volumetric charges can seem frustrating, there are smart ways to reduce your shipping costs:

• Efficient Packaging – Using the smallest possible box for every order is the first and most vital step in mastering the process. 
• Smart Grouping – When shipping multiple items, combine high-density and low-density products. This balances the shipment and helps avoid excess charges based on size.

Free repacking & consolidation – The Kfriday Advantage

At Kfriday, we repack and consolidate your items for free to help you save on international shipping. Here’s what we do:

• Carefully repackage your items using protective materials (bubble wrap, cardboard, etc.)
• Strategically pack your goods to minimize the billable weight
• Combine multiple orders into one compact, safe shipment

🧠 Result: You save money by paying for less volumetric weight.