MTMasterTool

Freight Density Calculator

Estimate freight density and a density-based class screening value.

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What this tool does

Estimate freight density and a density-based class screening value. Not a definitive freight classification. Dimensions must include pallet and packaging.

How to use the Freight Density Calculator

  1. Enter or select package length in in.
  2. Enter or select package width in in.
  3. Enter or select package height in in.
  4. Enter or select package count.
  5. Enter or select total gross shipment weight in lb.
  6. Read the calculated result; change any measurement to compare alternatives.

Formula

density=gross weight/(L×W×H×count/1728); density class=first threshold not exceeding density
length
Package length (in, before metric conversion)
width
Package width (in, before metric conversion)
height
Package height (in, before metric conversion)
count
Package count
weight
Total gross shipment weight (lb, before metric conversion)

Not a definitive freight classification. Dimensions must include pallet and packaging.

Worked example

For freight density calculator, the following measurements illustrate the exact method: Package length: 20; Package width: 16; Package height: 12; Package count: 1; Total gross shipment weight: 500.

Inputs

  • Package length20 in
  • Package width16 in
  • Package height12 in
  • Package count1
  • Total gross shipment weight500 lb

Result

  • Density (lb/cu ft)225
  • Shipment density (lb/cu ft)225
  • Shipment volume2.22 cu ft

Results explained

Density (lb/cu ft)
Density (lb/cu ft) from the formula above. Not a definitive freight classification. Dimensions must include pallet and packaging.
Shipment density (lb/cu ft)
Shipment density (lb/cu ft) from the formula above. Not a definitive freight classification. Dimensions must include pallet and packaging.
Shipment volume
Shipment volume from the formula above, expressed in cuft before metric conversion. Not a definitive freight classification. Dimensions must include pallet and packaging.

Frequently asked questions

density=gross weight/(L×W×H×count/1728); density class=first threshold not exceeding density

Measure outside dimensions after packaging, including protrusions. Use total gross weight including the packaging and pallet where appropriate.

No. Carriers also consider route, service, handling, minimum charges and commodity restrictions. Enter current carrier rules and get a confirmed quote.

Carrier rounding policies differ. Dimensional weight here is rounded up per package; entered dimensions are not silently rounded. Round measurements as required by your carrier.

Not a definitive freight classification. Dimensions must include pallet and packaging.