A volumetric weight machine is a dimensioning device designed to measure the dimensions like length, width, height and actual weight of an item to calculate its volumetric or dimensional weight automatically.
This calculated volumetric weight is used by shipping carriers to determine shipping charges, particularly when the size of a package or parcel takes up more space than its actual mass would suggest.
These volumetric weight machines use computer vision-based cameras to scan object’s length, width, and height. When combined with an integrated scale, the system can produce both actual and dimensional weight data in real time.
Why does volumetric weight matter in shipping and warehouse process? #
Volumetric weight ensures that shipping costs reflect the space a parcel occupies, not just its mass.
Here’s why volumetric weight machines are important:
- Accurate Shipping Bills: Carriers charge based on dimensional weight. These volumetric weight machines ensure accurate billing for all parcels or objects that is been measured.
- Faster Parcel Processing: Measuring and weighing a parcel manually using a tape measure is time consuming and labor intensive. Automation reduces that to seconds.
- Manual Error Reduction: Manual entry leads to frequent errors. An automated volumetric weighing system eliminates those labor errors.
- Warehouse Space Optimization: With precise dim data, companies enhance their warehouse rack, aisle spaces allocations and optimize truck transportation.
How does a volumetric weighing machines work? #
Our vMeasure volumetric weighing system uses computer vision technology to capture dimensions and volume of parcels and packages in under a second and instantly transfers the dim data to integrated WMS, TMS, etc.
Using a volumetric weighing system is as simple as this:
- Parcel Placement: A parcel is placed on the machine, conveyor belt, or mobile cart.
- Dimension Capture: Computer vision-based cameras capture the parcel’s external length, width, and height.
- Weight Measurement: A built-in scale determines actual weight.
- Instant Volumetric weight Calculation:
Dimensional Weight Formula = (Length x Width x Height) / DIM Factor - Data Output: The volumetric weighing system pushes both weight values to WMS, TMS, or carrier software for processing.
Difference between Dimensional Weight vs. Actual Weight? #
Actual Weight: The physical mass measured in kilograms or pounds.
Dimensional Weight: An amount of space a parcel occupies. It uses a DIM factor (e.g., 5000 cm³/kg or 139 in³/lb) provided by the carrier.
Billable parcel Weight: The higher of the two is used for shipping charges.
Example:
Dimensions: 100 x 50 x 30 inches
Actual Weight: 25 lbs
DIM Factor: 5000
Dim Weight = (100 x 50 x 30) / 5000 = 30 lbs
Billable weight = 30 lbs (higher than actual weight)
Where and how are this volumetric weight machines installed? #
Volumetric weight machines are designed to fit into real warehouse workflows. They come in several types based on their mounting fesibility, including:
- Tabletop units: Best for pack stations in e-commerce operations
- Floor-mounted systems: Suitable for inbound/outbound areas with limited space
- Conveyor-integrated scanners: Built for high-speed operations handling thousands of parcels per hour
- Mobile-cart systems: Battery-powered, moveable, ideal for dock-side audits or returns inspection
vMeasure volumetric weighing system handles items as small as 2x2x2 inches to as large as 53.1 – 41.3 – 33.5 inches, allowing for a wide variety of parcel types without needing different setups.
Who needs volumetric weight machines? #
Volumetric weight machines are critical to any shipping process where dimensions serve as the first point of data. These volumetric weighing systems support accuracy, cost control, and speed, which directly impacts multiple roles and departments.
Warehouse Managers
Responsible for maintaining operational throughput and inventory accuracy, warehouse managers use volumetric weight machines to reduce manual measurement tasks, streamline packing workflows, and improve staging accuracy for outbound freight.
Fulfillment Center Operators
For high-volume e-commerce or omni-channel environments, fulfillment teams need to move thousands of packages per day without bottlenecks. Volumetric weighing systems ensure labels are generated accurately, eliminating billing errors and returns caused by incorrect dimensions. They also support carton box selection to reduce void fill and packing material costs.
Freight Forwarders and Carriers
Carriers use volumetric weight machines to verify declared parcel data and reduce revenue leakage. Forwarders handling consolidation and cross-border shipments rely on automated dimensional weighing scanning system to stay compliant with carrier billing rules and ensure proper load planning.
3PLs
3PLs or third party logistics operate on slim margins and need defensible, auditable data when billing clients. Volumetric weight machines give them irrefutable proof of shipment dimensions along with images, helping them avoid undercharging and managing SLA compliance.
E-commerce Retailers
Direct-to-consumer brands and online sellers use volumetric weight machines to optimize fulfillment efficiency and prevent unexpected shipping charges that eat into margins. These volumetric weighing systems are especially critical when dealing with lightweight SKUs in oversized packaging, a common scenario in fashion, beauty, and electronics categories.
How to choose the right or best volumetric weight machine? #
Selecting the right volumetric weighing system depends on your operation’s scale, layout, and software setup. Focus on these five factors:
- Volume Throughput: Match volumetric weight machine speed to peak parcel load, tabletop units for low volumes, conveyor models for high throughput.
- Object Type: Choose systems that handle your typical item mix like boxed, cuboids, polybags, irregular, or soft-packed items.
- Space Availability: Identify whether a floor-mounted, compact, or mobile system fits your layout constraints.
- Accuracy Requirements: Confirm accuracy levels is up to 0.2 inches meet carrier billing and compliance standards.
- Data Integration Needs: Ensure real-time compatibility with your WMS, ERP, or label-generation systems.
If you’re still using tape measures and guesswork or relying only on weight, you’re leaving money on the table.
A volumetric weight machine helps you measure what matters. Faster processing, fewer disputes, and real control over shipping costs, all from one compact system.
