What is DIM Weight?
DIM Weight (Dimensional Weight) is a shipping calculation based on a package's size rather than its actual weight. It's calculated by multiplying Length × Width × Height.
Carriers charge based on whichever is higher — the physical weight or the DIM weight.
- USA carrier DIM divisor is 166 except for USPS which is 139
- Carriers may add fees when packages exceed certain size thresholds, which appear as Unexpected Carrier Surcharge (UCS) on your LVK invoice
How DIM Weight Works
- If DIM weight is higher than physical weight, you're charged based on DIM weight.
- If DIM weight is lower than physical weight, you're charged based on physical weight.
Exception: If a package is under 1 cubic foot and under 1 lb, DIM weight is ignored entirely.
How DIM Weight Applies by Package Type
| Package Type | How Billable Weight is Determined |
|---|---|
| Poly or bubble mailer | Whichever is greater: the combined DIM weight of the products inside, or their physical weight. |
| Box | Whichever is greater: the physical weight or the DIM weight of the box itself — product dimensions are ignored. |
Canada DIM Surcharges
- In Canada, a fuel surcharge is also applied on top of any DIM surcharge.
Example: If your base shipping cost is $10 and an oversize charge of $30 applies, the fuel surcharge is calculated on the combined total of $40.
DIM divisors for Canadian shipments:
| Carrier | DIM Divisor |
|---|---|
| Canada Post | 169 |
| Purolator | 172.8 |
| All other carriers | 166 |