Volumetric Weight vs Actual Weight
Mar 29, 2022
What is volumetric weight?
International shipping of items depends on several factors when it comes to choosing the mode of shipping, price and the required services. Volumetric weight is one of those prime factors. It is used by freight industries and courier services around the world to invoice for the actual space that a package takes up during transit. When shippers use the actual weight of goods, they lose a lot of money on light weight shipments because they take up a lot of space in the trucks. A vehicle can quickly become full ofbulky lightweight packages long before it reaches its capacity in weight which makes for inefficient use of space. Picture it this way: It would cost more to ship a plane full of feather pillows than one filled with mobile phones. The pillows take up more space, they cost less, and you need more shipments to make a significant profit.
How is volumetric weight calculated?
The parameter around volumetric weight varies by freight forwarder and mode of transport. The basic formula to calculate the volumetric weight is by calculating the volume first (Length x width x Height) then dividing by a volumetric divisor. Different freight forwarders and modes of transport use different volumetric divisors, therefore check with your shipper on what formula they use. If shipping with Aquantuo, then the volumetric divisor used for calculating the volumetric weight by air freight is 166 while1728 by sea freight.
VW (Lbs.) = (Length (inches) x Width (inches) x Height (inches) then divide by 166 – By air freight
VW (Lbs.) = (Length (inches) x Width (inches) x Height (inches) then divide by 1728 – By sea freight
https://aquantuo.com/volumetric-weight-calculator
When determining the billable weight, carriers will usually determine the greater of either the volumetric weight or the actual weight of the package.
Advantages of volumetric weight
Volumetric weight can seem like a hindrance, but it’s really your shippers trying to ensure that you ship efficiently. Leverage your knowledge in volumetric weight by determining the sizes of your boxes and packaging efficiently beforehand. For mastering this art, it is important that the smallest possible box is being used for each item.
Commonly, on behalf of the customer, Aquantuo will remove a product from its original box then repackage it to better utilize the space to avoid higher chargeable rates for its customers. However, in some cases it is unavoidable because of the bulkiness of a single item. Customers can opt for alternative services that have more advantageous volumetric divisor, such as sea freight services.
Lastly, volumetric weight also helps in creating an altogether single shipment for the entire lot. This single unit will be balanced in all dimensions and weight and make it easy for the carrier to transport it. One can even minimize potential losses by pairing items with lower and higher density together.With that being said, use this link by Aquantuo Logistics https://aquantuo.com/Price-Estimator todetermine your package’s volumetricweight beforehand.
THE 10 BEST VALENTINE’S DAY GIFT IDEAS FOR HER YOU CAN SHIP IN 2025
Valentine’s Day is approaching, and you have the same search as last year. “Women can be a little ‘complicated’ to understand, they change their minds every valentine” – men. True, last year she wanted roses and chocolates for valentines, now her TikTok algorithm has you mixed up on her current taste in flowers and chocolates and worse – her love language in 2025. But we got you, we can Buy for you, or you can use our online purchase – simply sit back, add to cart on Amazon, eBay, Shein, Back Market, Sephora, Fashionova – in short, from whatever e-commerce store in USA she is into. Do not worry about shipping to Accra, Nairobi, or Abuja – because with Aquantuo, shipping is fast, simple, and borderless to your doorstep in Kigali. It is easy – Just Ship It. We have done the hard work for you. We have researched, narrowed down, and narrowed down further on the ultimate list of Valentine’s Day gift items for her, that she will appreciate and that you for, even redefine her TikTok algorithm once more. You now have no reason not to gift her accordingly. 100 Dates Scratch Off Poster $28 $25 at Amazon life can get busy and important moments can swing by in the blink of an eye. One minute you have a thousand and one things you want to do together, the next minute no date ideas. This scratch-off poster will reveal a creative activity for you and her, go karting? Our Adventure Book $20 at Amazon Nostalgia, you know how memories can get and how they cement the key seasons of your life. This scrapbook kit comes with everything you need – stickers, pens and more! If she loves journaling this would be perfect, you can snoop in (It is wrong I know) and satisfy your curiosity about what she has written about your first date together. I Am Her Eau de Parfum $79 at Sephora Rich fragrance – every girl’s dream collection. This is not just for her; your mama too would adore this. It gives rich, boss babe energy – and in the era of women getting their bag, you want to show your support. The reviews of the perfume are amazing too, it is a sure bet. Hand Casting Kit $50 $45 at Amazon $60 $50 at lunabean.com A décor piece in the house that has both of your personal touch to it, sign me up! This is a bonding activity that once complete cements the valentine’s spirit. This work of art can be done with your child, mother, father, or anyone you deeply value as well. It the kind of love you get to display forever – literally! Wearable Blanket $51 $39 at Amazon $50 at Walmart $56 at Overstock Movie nights just got warmer on those cold nights! Time to get her snuggled up in this warm hooded wearable blanket so you do not have to worry if she is freezing in the middle of the game with the guys! 22k Gold James Baldwin "Love" Luxury Candle $65 at harlembrands.com Speaking of rich fragrances – there is more to a candle and this vibrant scent with notes of apple and clove couples with a quote from James Baldwin will do the magic this valentine! HERMÈS Mini Fragrance Discovery Set $60 at Sephora Sign up your love to Hermès with this fragrance discovery set – you can never go wrong with scent! and who does not love the orange Hermès! Box? Solawave Wrinkle Retreat Light Therapy Face Mask $349 at Amazon You can never go wrong with skin care! Beauty and women go hand in hand. Whether you have known each other for one week, or a decade, this is a gift she will appreciate. The light therapy mask’s purpose is to reduce wrinkles – a woman’s nightmare so show her you care and join her “increase collagen journey!” Apple AirPods Max $529 Amazon Apple plus noise cancelling headphones? Valentines just got more special! She could use them in the gym, as she takes her walks, you know anywhere! A bit pricy perhaps but can you put a price on love? It is valentines after all. Snag this or let Aquantuo snag them for you through the Buy for Me service! Fujifilm Instax Square SQ1 Instant Camera $120 Amazon Smart phones have simplified life but have taken away something deeper and meaningful. When was the last time you sat as a family looking at old photo albums? Capture genuine, meaningful moments or big occasions like her promotion, without adjusting the camera angles of your Samsung s25! (which you can still ship) and proceed to add some more memories to the fridge – where we all go for memories these days! The Stanley Quencher H2.0 Flow State Tumbler has to make an appearance. $35 at Amazon $40 at Walmart $35 at Lowe's Need we convince you? This is on her algorithm or in her best friend's house already – so just get it! Whatever you would want to get the woman who means the world to you, Aquantuo is here to make it happen. Shop from any online store in the USA, use an Aquantuo Address at check out and we will manage the shipping to Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, Uganda, Zambia, Rwanda, DRC or even Tanzania, wherever you are. Get an Aquantuo Address to get started. Click to Read about the advantages of a free sales tax address!
Ship the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift for Him
Valentine's Day is around the corner, and love is in the air, But…… Let’s be real, while everyone is focused on showing the ladies love, don’t you think it is time we turn the spotlight on the men too? So, ladies…. Don’t leave all the planning and surprises to him this Valentine’s, again! surprise him with something he will genuinely love and appreciate. Finding the right gift should not be a struggle, be it for your partner, friend, or someone you are just getting to know. To help you out, we have compiled a list of thoughtful gift ideas you can easily ship for him this Valentine’s season. Create a free shipping account 1. Tech and Gadgets: Let’s face it, guys and gadgets are a match made in heaven. If he is into gaming, fitness tracking, or simply loves staying up to date with the latest tech, then there definitely is a perfect gadget for him out there. You could consider a brand new iPhone to the latest PS5, or even the newest Apple Watch or AirPods. You are sure to find something that will make him smile. Pro-tip: He sure will sing your praises if you gift him something that has got the perfect blend of tech and style. You can purchase these items from, Best Buy, Amazon, Back Market or GameStop 2. Self-Care Essentials: Most men don’t exactly have their self-care game on, but this year, let’s change that. Why not spoil him with top tier grooming products? Grab him a luxurious grooming kit, a sleek cologne, or a relaxing massager for those long days at the office. Gentlemen need love too, and these gifts show them you care about their well-being and appearance. You can purchase these items from Baxter of California, Nordstrom or Ulta Beauty. 3. Fashion & Accessories Style your guy up, the internet will love it! It could be a classic watch, a pair of new sneakers, or even a fresh jacket to add some flair to his wardrobe, a thoughtful fashion gift will always make him feel special. Don’t break the bank, simple, quality pieces are timeless, and they will show you care. Get these items from, Farfetch, Nike or Mr Porter. 4. Personalized Gifts: Personalize that gift for him this Valentine’s. It could be a custom engraved wallet, personalized photo frames, or a custom bracelet. You can never go wrong with something that is as unique as your relationship. Purchase these items from Etsy or Zales. 5. Outdoor and Sports Gifts: Make the adventure unforgettable. For that outdoorsy or sporty guy, there is no better gift than tools that will make his next adventure unforgettable. If he is into hiking, working out, camping, or exploring new places, practical gifts like a durable backpack, a water bottle or high quality hiking boots will show him you appreciate his love for outdoors and sports. Don’t miss out on this opportunity ladies. Get these products from REI, Backcountry or Dick’s Sporting Goods. Ship It All to Africa with Aquantuo for Him This Valentine’s Finding the perfect Valentine’s Day gift is just the beginning. Once you have picked out the ideal surprise, let Aquantuo handle the shipping for you. If you are shopping from the USA or UK, we will make sure your gift arrives safely, on time, and without any hassle or any customs headaches. With order tracking, stress free customs clearance, and reliable shipping, Aquantuo has got you covered this Valentine’s season. If you cannot stand the stress of international shopping and want us to handle it for you, then you are in safe hands! With our Buy for Me Service, you only need to send us the link to the product, and we will take care of everything, shopping and shipping it right to your doorstep. Here is where to shop: Best Buy Amazon Nordstrom Baxter of California Farfetch Nike Mr Porter Etsy REI Let’s make sure your Valentine’s Day gift is more than just a present, let it be an unforgettable experience. Ready to ship to Africa from the USA? Get started with Aquantuo today
Why Shipping a Watch Could Costs More Than a Bale of Shein Clothes: Mastering Volumetric Weight
Did you know that shipping a watch could cost more to ship than a bale of Shein clothes? It sounds odd, but there is a hidden factor at play called volumetric weight. This crucial shipping concept can significantly impact your costs, especially when you are dealing with shipping from the USA, UK or arranging sea shipping from China to Africa. Let’s break it down and explore how understanding volumetric weight can save you money when shipping to Africa. What is Volumetric Weight? Volumetric weight, sometimes called dimensional weight, measures how much space your package takes up. It’s a key consideration for shipping companies because large, lightweight packages can take up significant room, reducing the space available for other shipments. The formula for calculating volumetric weight is simple: Volumetric Weight (kg) = (Length × Width × Height) ÷ 6000 Here’s how it works: Dimensions (Length, Width, Height) are measured in centimeters. The divisor (6000) is standard for air freight. Shipping companies like us, which specialize in sea and air shipping from China to Africa, air shipping from the USA, UK, Dubai and Canada use this formula to ensure fair pricing for all customers. Why Do Shipping Companies Use Volumetric Weight? When shipping carriers calculate charges, they consider both the actual weight (the weight on a scale) and the volumetric weight. The higher value is used for billing. Why? Because space on planes and ships is limited. A lightweight, bulky package like a box of cotton can take up far more room than a dense, heavy package like a rock. Examples to Illustrate the Concept Cotton Box Dimensions: 100 × 50 × 30 cm Volumetric Weight = (100 × 50 × 30) ÷ 6000 = 90.4 kg Actual Weight = 30 kg Billed for: 90.4 kg Rock Box Dimensions: 150 × 150 × 20 cm Volumetric Weight = (150 × 150 × 20) ÷ 6000 = 271.1 kg Actual Weight = 1 kg Billed for: 271.1 kg How Aquantuo Calculates Shipping Costs We, experts in air and sea freight services to Africa, ensure transparency in shipping costs. Here’s how the process works: Actual Weight: The package is weighed on a scale. Volumetric Weight: The dimensions are used in the formula to calculate volumetric weight. Comparison: The higher value between actual and volumetric weight is selected for billing. This system ensures that both space and weight are fairly accounted for, maintaining balance in shipping operations and costs. Check out the volumetric weight calculator Top Countries for Shipping and Services Offered We specialize in logistics solutions for customers in various African countries, including: Shipping from the USA to Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Rwanda and DRC: Popular for e-commerce goods for individuals and businesses. Sea and air shipping from China to Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, DRC and Zambia: Ideal for individuals, bulk shipments, and commercial shipments. Shipping services from the UK to Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Nigeria and Rwanda: Streamlined solutions for e-commerce goods for both individuals and businesses. Whether you are shipping bulky goods or small parcels, Aquantuo’s expertise ensures your items reach their destination safely and on time. Get an Aquantuo address Tips to Save on Shipping Costs Understanding volumetric weight can help you make smarter decisions when shipping internationally. Here are some practical tips: Choose Compact Packaging Large boxes with empty space can inflate volumetric weight. Ask sellers to use smaller boxes that fit your items snugly. Plan Ahead with Price Estimators Use tools like Aquantuo’s Price Estimator to calculate shipping costs before you send packages. Opt for Sea Freight for Bulk Shipments If you’re shipping larger volumes, especially from China, sea freight can be more cost-effective than air freight. Why Choose Aquantuo for Your Shipping Needs? We stand out when it comes to transparency, efficiency, and tailored services. Whether it’s shipping from the USA to African destinations or managing sea freight from China, we prioritize fair pricing and customer satisfaction. Plus, our experience in handling diverse shipments makes us a trusted partner for businesses and individuals alike. Conclusion: Ship Smarter with Aquantuo Volumetric weight might seem like a complicated concept, but it’s a game-changer for anyone involved in international shipping. It is important to understand how it works, you can avoid surprises and make informed choices about packaging and shipping methods. Now that you know the secrets of shipping costs, it’s time to put your knowledge into action. If you are shipping goods to Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, Uganda or any other African country, Aquantuo is here to help. Click to Sign up Sign up today, get an Aquantuo address and start shipping smarter today!
Why Shipping this Valentines Day is the Way to Go
Valentine’s is coming – again! The Kabusa Oriental Choir is cooking something for the singles, memes and funny videos on social media have started to mock those without ‘love’ and couples are planning on how to apply “pressure” by painting the town red, it is their season after all. Aquantuo is here to ensure that, whether you are appreciating yourself, a friend, a relative or a partner, you get to break borders and give them gifts that truly matter. It’s time for ladies to step up, and the gentlemen, more than flowers and chocolates please! You know she’s been asking for the newly released Samsung S25. No excuses this time, just ship it! How can you – Just Ship It? Shipping from Amazon, eBay, Back Market, AliExpress, you name is so easy nowadays! Gone are the days where you needed a relative to travel and handle the shipping of items from USA, China or even UK, when they visited, you can now order and track orders at the comfort of your home in Kenya, hello technology. Aquantuo is here to make the process simple and efficient. You can ship with Aquantuo from USA, UK, China, Dubai or Canada for business, or small individual orders through 3 key services: Online purchase: You know what item you want to ship for your spouse this valentine already because they have been yapping about it since last valentines after you gave them the ‘bare minimum’ in their perspective, or you got it wrong, again. Ship the correct item this time using these simple steps: - Sign up at Aquantuo.com and navigate the dashboard and get the international address of the country you want to ship from. - Use that address at check out as the delivery address. Aquantuo will receive the items and ship them to your doorstep. - Create an online order on your Aquantuo for updates as soon as the items arrive at the international warehouses. See, 3 simple steps. Who thought shipping from Amazon could be that easy1 and the beauty is, you get an update every step of the way. You now can make valentines and all seasons special for you and your loved ones. Click to view the top gifts for her from Amazon this valentine’s season. Get an Aquantuo Address Buy for me: The shipping process seems ‘too much’ to do it on your own, we get it, convenience is the way to go in shipping. We can purchase those valentines’ orders on your behalf – whether you are a business or an individual. The steps are easy as they should be: - Sign up at Aquantuo.com and navigate the dashboard to create an order and click on ‘buy for me.’ - Provide links and detailed descriptions of the items you want. - Our customer support will contact you to process your orders and ship them to you. Top item to ship from eBay this Valentine’s season. Door to Door You have a relative in the USA, and they have been promising to ship things to you, this Valentine’s season is the season. It’s now possible, no more excuses or long waiting times because they have to book that flight, Aquantuo handles international door-to-door deliveries. In other words, we deliver from their doorstep in the USA to your doorstep in either Kenya, Ghana, Uganda, Nigeria, Tanzania, or even Zambia. All you have to do is: - Sign up at Aquantuo.com and navigate the dashboard to create an order and click on ‘door to door.’ - Provide links and detailed descriptions of the packages you want picked up and address information as well. - Our customer support will contact you to process your request and organize pick up and shipping. Sign up to create a request Flowers and fancy dinners might be the theme for this Valentine’s Day, but it’s truly about the little gestures, the surprises, and the caring that you put into every touch of indulgence. From sharing a loving message to someone overseas, to patiently awaiting your new purchase, Aquantuo is behind every romantic gesture. Every delivery from a love story has a story behind it, and Aquantuo understands that. Start shipping today and discover the world in your hands.
Tax Free shipping from the USA to Africa
Shopping from the USA is always a vibe! It’s exciting when you purchase items from Amazon, Walmart, Fashion Nova, Zara and all the other online stores, and have them delivered straight to our doorstep when you live in Africa, miles away from the USA. Shopping this way guarantees quality, authentic products direct from the source, cool right? But we know shopping internationally can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when it seems like the costs go beyond just the shipping fee, at times the costs do, depending on the international shipping company you are using.Ever heard of sales tax? Well, to simply put it, this is tax on the items you are buying, sort of how you pay taxes on bread, that VAT. But why pay taxes on the goods you purchase when you can move different when you ship with Aquantuo, and enjoy ZERO Sales taxes for goods bought in the USA?We are a cross-border e-commerce company that offers international shipping solutions for individuals and businesses shopping from the USA to African countries like Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, Rwanda, and DRC. Also, customers can send packages to their loved ones from any state in the US to their last mile destinations in Africa. The cherry on top? You get to save even more! Shipping from the USA is entirely TAX-FREE. Aquantuo has a tax-free warehouse in Delaware, allowing you to shop and ship almost anything - well not everything, check our limited and prohibited items, without any extra sales tax on the items bought from the USA. Many states in the USA impose an additional sales tax on goods bought from stores. When shipping these items to Africa, shipping costs can significantly increase the overall cost of your purchase. Here are some examples: • California: Sales tax up to 10.75%• Washington: Sales tax rates up to 10.25%• New York/New Jersey: Sales tax up to 8.9%• Illinois: Sales tax up to 10.25%• Arizona: Sales tax rates up to 11.2%• Nevada: Maximum sales tax rate of 8.375%• Tennessee: Sales tax up to 9.75%• Florida: Sales tax ranging from 6% to 8.5%• Texas: Sales tax generally 8.25% With Aquantuo, you enjoy 0% sales tax on your goods when you use our Delaware warehouse address at check-out. This is the great thing about international shipping with Aquantuo, no need to spend more than you should. When you ship from the USA to Africa with us, your international shipping costs include; shipping cost, insurance, and last mile delivery fees. In some countries the is charged separate but when shipping from USA to Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia and DRC the shipping costs covers the customs clearance fees too. This means you save much more than you might expect! Shipping from the USA to Africa is best done with Aquantuo. SAVE more every time you ship with Aquantuo. Start saving today! 1. Visit www.aquantuo.com to sign up if you have not already.2. Once you are signed in, go to your dashboard and click on “My Aquantuo Address.”3. A list of Aquantuo’s warehouse addresses will appear; copy the USA address.4. Use this address whenever you are checking out at your favorite online stores. Start shopping now: Amazon Walmart FashionNova Bath and Body Works Zara