What is a dimensional weight scale?

A dimensional weight scale is a device that measures both the physical dimensions and actual weight of a package to calculate its dimensional weight. It is used in shipping to determine billable weight when size exceeds mass.

How does a dimensional weight scale work?

A dimensional weight scale uses a dimensioner and an integrated scale to measure a package’s length, width, height, and weight. It then calculates the dimensional weight using standard carrier formulas and transmits the data to shipping software.

How do you calculate dimensional weight?

Dimensional weight is calculated by multiplying a package’s length × width × height, then dividing by a carrier’s DIM divisor (typically 139 for inches). The result is compared to actual weight, and the higher value becomes the billable weight.

What is the difference between dimensional weight and actual weight?

Actual weight is the package’s weight on a scale. Dimensional weight is a calculated value based on the package’s volume. Carriers charge based on whichever is greater to account for space taken during transit.

How do carriers apply dimensional weight pricing?

Carriers compare dimensional and actual weight for each package. The higher value is used to determine shipping cost. This pricing model encourages efficient packaging and helps carriers optimize cargo space.

Dimensional Weight Scale

Optimize Order Fulfillment with vMeasure Dimensional Weighing System

vMeasure dimensional weight scale captures a package’s length, width, height, actual weight, barcode data, and images in less than a second.

It is used by warehouses, 3PLs, and fulfillment operations to calculate dimensional weight correctly, reduce manual errors, and send accurate parcel data into shipping workflows.

Measure any shapes and sizes in <1 second

with vMeasure dimensional weighing scales

Dimensioning Specs of vMeasure Dimensional Weighing System

Measure anything from small envelopes to mid-sized refrigerators with the vMeasure dimensional scales.

At the Mount Height:

vMeasure dimensional weight scale specifications
Minimum Dimensions (L – W – H)	1.2 x 1.2 x 0.8 in * 3 x 3 x 2 cm (* For items below 0.8 inches in height, a special envelope base plate is required)
Maximum Dimensions (L – W – H)	39.4 – 29.5 – 17.7 in * 100 – 75 – 45 cm (* Maximum dimensions are independent axis limits and may not be achieved together; measurable length and width vary with object height.)
Accuracy	Cubes/Cuboids – 0.2 in / 0.5 cm Other Objects – 0.4 in / 1 cm
Mounted on	Table / Mobile Cart / Mechanical Conveyor
Data captured	Annotated SKU/Parcel image Additional SKU/Parcel image Custom fields for additional data capture during measurement

vMeasure dimensional weight scale specifications
Minimum Dimensions (L – W – H)	2 x 2 x 2 in 5 x 5 x 5 cm
Maximum Dimensions (L – W – H)	53.1 – 41.3 – 33.5 in * 135 – 105 – 85 cm (* Maximum dimensions are independent axis limits and may not be achieved together; measurable length and width vary with object height.)
Accuracy	0.4 in / 1 cm
Mounted on	Table / Mobile Cart / Mechanical Conveyor
Data captured	Annotated image Multiple angles of SKU/Parcel Custom fields for additional data capture during measurement

vMeasure dimensional weight scale specifications
Minimum Dimensions (L – W – H)	3.9 x 3.9 x 3.9 in 10 x 10 x 10 cm
Maximum Dimensions (L – W – H)	78.7 – 59.1 – 55.1 in * 200 – 150 – 140 cm (* Maximum dimensions are independent axis limits and may not be achieved together; measurable length and width vary with object height.)
Accuracy	0.6 in / 1.5 cm
Mounted on	Floor / Mechanical Conveyor
Data captured	Annotated image Multiple angles of SKU/Parcel Custom fields for additional data capture during measurement

Have questions about procuring dimensional weighing scales?

How does vMeasure dimensional weight scale improve order fulfillment?

The vMeasure dimensional weighing system improves your order fulfillment by automating the workflow from capturing dimensions and weight to transferring shipment data into your existing warehouse and shipping software. This reduces manual data-entry errors and helps optimize shipping costs.

Faster Throughput: The vMeasure dimensional weighing system captures precise dimensions and weight in less than 1 second, speeding up the packing process and helping you handle more orders efficiently.
Error Reduction: The vMeasure automated dimensional weight scale minimizes manual measurement errors by automating data capture with 0.2-inch accuracy, delivering precise dimensional records.
Resolve Damage Claims: The vMeasure dimensional weighing system captures annotated parcel images that provide visual documentation to help you quickly resolve or file claims for damaged packages, saving time during claim review.
Compliance Assurance: The vMeasure dimensional weight scale captures accurate dimensions and weight to verify packages against carrier requirements. This helps reduce unexpected surcharges and keeps shipping costs predictable.

Who should use a dimensional and weighing machine?

Warehouse operations that often deal with inconsistent dimensions, billing disputes, and rising shipping costs require a dimensional and weighing machine to automate measurement capture, reduce manual errors, and control shipping expenses.

Warehouses and Distribution Centers

Need accurate parcel measurements instantly at inbound or outbound.
Want to reduce manual errors and maintain reliable SKU data.

Third-Party Logistics Providers (3PLs)

Handle diverse client SKUs that require consistent DIM-weight records.
Aim to reduce billing disputes and carrier chargebacks.

E-commerce Fulfillment Operations

Process high-volume daily orders that demand quick measurement.
Need automated data capture to improve shipment data accuracy across packing and shipping.

Parcel and Courier Networks

Require accurate dimension and weight data to meet DIM-weight requirements before last-mile dispatch.
Need audit-ready images and records to resolve disputes quickly.

What are the different mounting options of vMeasure dimensional weight scale?

vMeasure dimensional weight scale offers flexible mounting options that fit into your existing order fulfillment workflow, utilizing the available space efficiently with minimal changes to your warehouse layout.

vMeasure parcel dimensioning system hardware

Table Mount

Ideal for pack stations handling standard parcels in daily operations.

Throughput Rate:
300 – 350 parcels/hour.

Floor Mount

Best for bulky, oversized or irregular parcels that don’t fit on standard tables.

Throughput Rate:
250 – 300 parcels/hour.

Conveyor Mount

Designed for high-volume operations, capturing parcel dimensions in motion.

Throughput Rate:
900 – 950 parcels/hour.

Mobile Cart

Portable setup for on-demand dimensioning across multiple workstations.

Throughput Rate:
250 – 300 parcels/hour.

See how vMeasure dimensional weighing scales can fit into your operations

Real Results from vMeasure Dimensional Scales

See how Global Gloves Safety replaced manual parcel measurement, reduced shipping costs, and improved rate shopping with the vMeasure dimensional weight scale.

Why choose vMeasure dimensional scale over others?

Computer Vision Technology

vMeasure dimensional weighing system uses advanced computer vision cameras to capture accurate and consistent measurements, setting it apart from laser-based dimensioners.

Seamless and Versatile Integration

The vMeasure dimensional weight scale integrates with any WMS, TMS, ERP, and shipping software through no-code APIs and webhooks, automating data flow and reducing manual entry errors.

Flexible Subscription-Based Pricing

Switch from CapEx to OpEx with the vMeasure dimensional weighing system’s subscription-based pricing. Spend about 40% of what other dimensioners cost over five years and manage cash flow more predictably.

Unmatched Accuracy

Our dimensional weighing system measures parcels with accuracy up to 5 mm (0.2 inches), reducing measurement errors and costly shipping mistakes.

Comprehensive Parcel Imaging

The vMeasure dimensional weight scale automatically captures SKU and parcel images for dispute resolution and inventory records.

Customizable Workflows

Our dimensional scales support customizable workflows that fit your order fulfillment process and ensure the system works precisely how you need it to.

See what our customers say about vMeasure dimensioners

Frequently asked questions

1. What is a dimensional scale?

In logistics, dimensional scale refers to the measurement device or a tool that measures a package’s weight, length, width, and height before it is shipped.

This data is used to calculate dimensional weight and compare it with the actual weight. The higher value is usually taken as the billable weight.

Warehouses, 3PLs, and ecommerce fulfillment centers use dimensional scales to avoid manual measurement errors and maintain more accurate shipping records.

How It’s Used

A package passes over or is placed on the dimensional scale
Cameras/sensors measure all three dimensions
The system calculates dimensional weight automatically
Data is fed into the shipping software to determine the correct freight charge

2. How does the dimensional weighing system work?

The vMeasure dimensional weighing system uses computer vision technology to capture the length, width, height, and weight of each package in less than a second.

Once placed in the measurement area, high-resolution cameras scan the item, record its dimensions, calculate dimensional weight, and automatically transfer the data to your WMS or shipping software when integrated.

3. How does UPS, FedEx and USPS charge by dimensional weight?

Dimensional weight charge is a pricing method where carriers calculate shipping costs based on a package’s volume instead of actual weight. The dimensional weight is calculated by multiplying a package’s length, width, and height, then dividing by a carrier-specific dimensional factor (called a divisor). For example:

UPS and FedEx typically use a 139 divisor for domestic and international shipments.
USPS applies dimensional pricing for larger parcels, often using a 166 divisor for certain zones.

If the dimensional weight is higher than the actual weight, carriers use the dimensional weight as the billable weight otherwise, they use the actual weight.

4. Can dimensional weighing scales handle different types of SKUs?

Yes, our vMeasure dimensional weighing system is designed to measure all types of SKUs, both regular and irregular, accurately and quickly.

5. Can the vMeasure dimensional weight scale integrate with my existing systems?

Yes, our dimensional weight scales are designed for easy integration with any of your WMS, TMS and ERP solutions.

6. What makes vMeasure’s dimensional weight scale unique?

Our dimensional weight scale provides measurements in less than a second, seamlessly integrates into your workflow, and reduces shipping costs by up to 20%, delivering consistent long-term ROI.

7. What is the dimensional weighing scale price?

The dimensional weighing scale price ranges from $2,200 to $2,860. This may also vary based on dimensioning capabilities, features, accuracy level, and integration options.For pricing details, check out our pricing page.

8. Can I measure parcel dimensions with a dimensional weight scales app?

Yes! Our dimensional scales app lets you measure parcel dimensions and weight instantly using your iPhone 13 Pro. It integrates seamlessly with your existing WMS, TMS, and multi-carrier shipping software, transferring data instantly and making on-the-go dimensioning effortless.

9. How are dimensional scales different from standard weighing scales?

Dimensional scales not only measure the weight of a package but also capture its precise dimensions, providing cubic volume data. This is crucial for calculating dimensional weight (DIM weight), which many carriers use to determine shipping costs.

10. What is the accuracy of typical dimensional scales?

The accuracy of dimensional scales varies depending on the model. Advanced models, including vMeasure, can achieve an accuracy of up to ±0.2 inches for regular packages and ±0.04 inches for irregularly shaped items.

11. What industries can benefit most from using dimensional scales?

Dimensional scales are most beneficial for industries such as eCommerce, retail, logistics, warehousing, freight forwarding, and manufacturing. These industries rely on accurate measurements for packaging, shipping cost calculations, and efficient inventory management.

12. How can a dimensional scale reduce shipping costs?

By providing precise dimension and weight data, businesses can avoid overpaying due to incorrect dimensional weight estimates and prevent carrier surcharges due to inaccurate declarations.

13. Are dimensional weighing scales suitable for small businesses?

Yes. While generally used in large fulfillment centers, affordable models now allow small eCommerce retailers and shippers to adopt dimensional weighing scales. This helps them stay compliant with carrier pricing rules and scale operations without excessive manual work.

14. Do dimensional scale require technical installation?

Not necessarily. Many systems today are plug-and-play and come pre-calibrated. For example, vMeasure dimensional scale installs with a simple Allen key and goes live in under an hour with no IT support or complex setup needed.

15. What are the common dimensional weight divisor formulas for major carriers (UPS, FedEx and USPS)?

Most carriers compare the dimensional weight with the actual weight and bill whichever is higher. This is why accurate package dimensions are important for reducing shipping charge corrections, carrier disputes, and unexpected freight costs.

The common dimensional weight formula is:

DIM weight = Length × Width × Height ÷ DIM divisor

Carrier	Common DIM divisor	Formula
UPS Daily Rates	139	Length × Width × Height ÷ 139
UPS Retail Rates	166	Length × Width × Height ÷ 166
FedEx	139	Length × Width × Height ÷ 139
USPS	166	Length × Width × Height ÷ 166

For example, if a package measures 20 × 15 × 10 inches, the cubic size is:

20 × 15 × 10 = 3,000 cubic inches

Using a 139 divisor:

3,000 ÷ 139 = 21.58 lbs

Since carriers usually round up, the dimensional weight becomes 22 lbs.

If the actual package weight is lower than 22 lbs, the carrier may bill based on the dimensional weight instead of the actual weight.

Talk to the dimensioning experts

Would you like to figure out how the vMeasure dimensional weight scale can save your Order fulfillment centers time and money by estimating parcels’ accurate dimensional and weight data?

What do our customers say?

"…They are now indispensable components in our shipping process and have allowed us to predict shipping costs accurately…"

"...vMeasure provided excellent support throughout the product integration process, with readily available and effective after-sales assistance…"

"...With vMeasure, we were able to take the cloud-based solution literally under a day and under a far more achievable budget..."