What is volumetric weight?

For international shipments via PostNL, the volumetric weight is taken into account.

The price for shipments outside the EU is calculated as follows: base rate + (volumetric weight x kilo surcharge). The kilo surcharge is determined based on the content (dm3) of the shipment, either using the actual weight (in kg) or the volumetric weight.
 

This method is designed to charge shipments that occupy more space and/or weight during transport more than smaller and/or lighter shipments. This means that if the actual weight of a shipment is greater than the volumetric weight, the actual weight is used to calculate the kilo surcharge.
 

However, if the volumetric weight is greater than the actual weight, then the volumetric weight is used. We'll explain how this works in practice using the following example:
 

The volumetric weight is calculated based on the volume (dm3 / 7.5).

Dimensions: 60 x 30 x 40 cm Volume: 6 x 3 x 4 dm = 72 dm3 Actual weight: 3 kg Volumetric weight: 72 / 7.5 = 9.6 kg
 

Suppose we want to send this package to the United Kingdom:

Base rate: €14.85

Weight surcharge: €1.00

€14.85 + (9.6 x €1.00) = €24.45