To make sure you always get the best value for money, Sherpr uses a tiered pricing system across all routes. No matter where you’re shipping - Europe, the USA or anywhere else in the world - we use one simple rule to determine your price.
So, how is your quote calculated? It all comes down to two types of weights on your shipment: the actual, and volumetric weights.
Volumetric vs Actual Weight
Actual Weight: How heavy the item physically is - the number you see on the scales.
Volumetric Weight: How much space the item takes up - based on its size rather than how heavy it is.
This is the foundation of how your quote is determined. In short, your price is determined by whichever is higher: your actual weight or your volumetric weight.
What price will I pay?
The price you pay depends on which of your weights is higher - your actual weight or your volumetric weight.
Below are two examples to show how this works in practice:
Item A: Example of ACTUAL Weight
Item B: Example of VOLUMETRIC Weight
How is Volumetric Weight calculated?
Volumetric weight is calculated by taking three measurements - the item’s depth, height, and width - to produce a final figure. This can be determined using the formula below:
We’ve included two examples: one using metric measurements and one using imperial.
Example 1: Metric Measurements (CM/KG)
Example 2: Imperial Measurements (inches/lbs)
When you place your order with Sherpr, simply enter your item’s dimensions and weight, and we’ll automatically determine the price based on whether the actual or volumetric weight is higher.
When measuring suitcases, be sure to include the full dimensions - handles, wheels, and any bulging areas like pockets or compartments. The same principle applies to unusually shaped boxes, parcels, or cases (such as a musical instrument case); always take into account every protruding part and any empty space.
Volumetric Weight with Sherpr
Although we’ve explained what actual and volumetric weight are, and how we calculate our prices, you don't need to calculate these yourself. Simply enter your item’s accurate dimensions and weight when adding your items, and we’ll take care of the rest.
We’ve included some of our most frequently asked questions about volumetric weight below.
Why is my volumetric weight higher than my actual weight?
Does Sherpr calculate volumetric weight automatically?
Yes. When you enter your item’s dimensions and actual weight during the booking process, the Sherpr system automatically calculates the volumetric weight, compares it to the actual weight, and displays the correct price band. You do not need to calculate it yourself, but understanding how it works helps you plan ahead and avoid surprises.
What if I measure in inches but want to compare in kg?
What is the maximum weight Sherpr can accept?
What if my item is over 1.2m (47 inches) on international routes?
What happens if I change my measurements because it lowers my price?
My item is close to the limit. What should I do?
Why is my volumetric weight higher than my actual weight?
This is very common with luggage and boxes. A suitcase that is only half full of clothes might weigh 15 kg on the scales, but it occupies the same space in the courier’s vehicle as a full one. The volumetric formula accounts for this. Light, bulky items will almost always have a higher volumetric weight than actual weight.
Does Sherpr calculate volumetric weight automatically?
Yes. When you enter your item’s dimensions and actual weight during the booking process, the Sherpr system automatically calculates the volumetric weight, compares it to the actual weight, and displays the correct price band. You do not need to calculate it yourself, but understanding how it works helps you plan ahead and avoid surprises.
What if I measure in inches (in) but want to compare in kilograms (kg)??
We recommend measuring everything in metric units for consistency. However, if you prefer to work in imperial, simply use the inches formula to get your volumetric weight in lbs, then convert both the actual weight and volumetric weight to lbs before comparing them. Do not mix units (e.g., do not compare a result in kg with an actual weight in lbs).
What is the maximum weight Sherpr can accept?
For all international routes, no individual item can exceed 68 kg in either actual weight or volumetric weight. If your item exceeds this limit, it cannot be shipped. For domestic UK shipments on the Express 24 service, the maximum actual weight is 30 kg per item.
What if my item is over 1.2m (47 inches) on international routes?
On applicable international routes, items with a longest dimension exceeding 1.2m / 47 inches require manual handling and a surcharge applies. Please refer to the specific route details for the exact thresholds and surcharge amounts for your service.
What happens if I change my measurements because it lowers my price?
You must provide the actual and accurate dimensions and weight of your items. Providing incorrect measurements, even unintentionally, may result in additional oversize or overweight charges and could lead to delays with your shipment. Please make sure you enter the most accurate information possible. If you’re unsure about any details, our customer service team will be happy to help.
My item is close to the weight/size limit. What should I do?
If your item is close to the size or weight limit for your chosen route, we recommend double-checking your measurements carefully. Always measure to the outermost point. Our booking system will flag any issues before you confirm, but it is better to verify in advance. If you’re unsure about any details, our customer service team will be happy to help.