Dimensional Weight
DIM Weight: The Ultimate Guide to Reducing Shipping Costs and Creating a Sustainable Supply Chain
Table of Contents
Introduction
Streamlined shipping process:
Importance of DIM weight in shipping and logistics:
Understanding DIM weight
Importance of DIM weight in shipping and logistics:
The formula for calculating dimensional weight (DIM Weight) is:
Length * width * Height / DIM Factor
Difference between Actual weight and DIM weight:
Factors that affect DIM weight:
- One of the most important elements influencing DIM weight is package size. In general, the larger the package, the higher the DIM weight and the higher the shipping cost. As a result, firms should attempt to use the smallest box feasible for their shipments while still ensuring that the contents are appropriately protected.
- The type of packaging materials used can also have an impact on DIM weight. Bulky materials like foam cushioning or bubble wrap can greatly increase the size and volumetric weight of the package, resulting in increased transportation expenses. To reduce the overall size and weight of the container, businesses could consider employing lightweight but effective packaging materials such as air cushions or paper fill.
- Finally, the destination of the package can also affect DIM weight. Carriers may charge different DIM factors based on the shipping zone or region, meaning that shipping costs can vary significantly depending on the destination. Businesses should consider working with carriers that offer consistent DIM factors to reduce the impact of DIM weight on their shipping costs.
Why does DIM weight matter?
Cost implications of DIM weight:
Impact of dim weight on shipping costs:
How to optimize DIM weight to reduce shipping costs:
Businesses can also take advantage of technology and use dimensioning weighing scanning – DWS systems to accurately and efficiently calculate the volumetric weight. This helps to avoid errors and discrepancies in shipping costs, ultimately improving the accuracy of freight class calculation, auditing efficiency, and overall supply chain collaboration.
Note: Do you want to learn more about the DWS system? Click here to find out!
DIM weight and eCommerce
Importance of DIM weight in eCommerce shipping:
Best practices for managing DIM weight in eCommerce:
- Regularly review and optimize packaging:
- Use shipping calculators:
- Work with carriers to negotiate better DIM factors:
- Invest in packaging software or DWS systems:
- Train staff on DIM weight calculation and optimization:
Strategies for reducing DIM weight in eCommerce:
- Use efficient packaging materials:
- Bundle products together:
- Minimize packaging materials:
- Use the smallest box possible:
- Work with carriers to negotiate better DIM factors:
- Use packaging software or DWS systems:
DIM weight and sustainability
Environmental implications of DIM weight:
How to reduce DIM weight for a more sustainable supply chain?
- Use eco-friendly packaging materials:
- Optimize packaging design:
- Collaborate with carriers:
- Invest in DWS systems:
Benefits of optimizing DIM weight for sustainability:
- Attracting environmentally conscious customers:
- Cost savings:
- Improved competitiveness:
- Environmental benefits:
Conclusion
Capture Shipping Order Information
Users can capture shipping order information from the Order Management System (OMS) and view it on the vMeasure Parcel Ultima UI device touchscreen.
Dimension Parcels
vMeasure Parcel Ultima accurately measures the parcel’s dimensions and captures any additional required data through its customizable workflows.
Data Transfer to EasyPost
The parcel dimensions and relevant data are sent from the vMeasure Parcel Ultima system to EasyPost’s platform.
Carrier Selection
EasyPost processes the parcel data and retrieves all available shipping label options, including carrier choices and pricing. The end user reviews and selects the most suitable carrier option based on their preferences and requirements.
Label Printing
EasyPost generates the appropriate shipping label based on the selected carrier and parcel data. The shipping label is sent back to the vMeasure Parcel Ultima system, where it is printed out by a natively integrated label printer.
Apply the Label
The end user applies the printed shipping label to the parcel, completing the shipping process.
The world’s first and only Dimensioning as a Service (DIMaaS).