Determining the dimensional weight of an item is a straightforward process, yet is time consuming and can result in big & expensive problems when errors occur.

Dimensioning Weighing systems use sophisticated sensors to collect size & weight data electronically, instantly calculating as item’s length, width, height, & weight.  The most typical way of acquiring dimensional weighing is by ultra sound, infrared, or laser technology.  Packages are sized when they pass through a light array, reflections from these lights are sent back to the unit as measurements.  Then the system computes the size of the package.

Dimensional Weight Systems have been in existence since the 1980’s by the Department of Defense to optimize storage at its supply depots.  Today there are more advantages than just optimizing storage space at a warehouse. For in coming shipments, you know exactly how much shelf space a particular unit will occupy and which items should be placed on lower shelves because of their weight. Dimensional data can also prove invaluable in helping assure that the proper shipping charges are passed on to customers.

With the elimination of human errors, shipping costs can even be reduced with more efficient packing and managers may be able to play out drivers routes based on the averaged delivery size. Building pallet loads can also be made easier with dimensional data.  Identifying the heavier items first and placing them at the bottom of a pallet, with lighter items above can speed up the process, and also ensuring a tight, stable load.

Most major shipping companies, designate their charges for shipping packages based on what is called the dim weight or dimensional weight of something being shipped. The standard formula for determining the dim weight is

DW= length (L) X width (W) X height (H) divided by dimensional weight conversion factor, usually 194 for domestic shipping, and 166 for International shipping.  The calculations are used to consider the amount of space a package will take up in relation to the weight of the package.  If the calculations are inaccurate due to poor dimensional measuring techniques, the results affect everyone involved.  The traditional method to measure a box was with a tape measure.  But this method is typically inaccurate, therefore, the customer is being over charged or in many cases, under charged, not to mention the traditional method of measuring boxes is very time consuming.  Typically many companies use production lines or conveyor systems, where objects are moving at a high rate of speed therefore the traditional measuring process is impractical.

With the right system, shipping and warehouse supple depots can reduce their costs and pass them on to the customer.  Shipping departments need to take advantage of this technology to control their shipping  & packaging expenses.