Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Chain of Custody • Parcel Sorting • POD

Volumetric Weight

Term from Courier Services industry explained for recruiters

Volumetric Weight (also known as dimensional weight) is a pricing calculation method used in shipping and courier services. It's a way to figure out shipping costs based on how much space a package takes up, rather than just its actual weight. This is important because light but bulky items (like pillows) can take up as much truck or airplane space as heavy, compact items. Companies use this to make sure they charge fairly for the space their delivery vehicles use. Think of it like paying rent for the space a package uses during its journey, not just how heavy it is.

Examples in Resumes

Managed shipping costs by optimizing Volumetric Weight calculations for overseas shipments

Trained staff on Dimensional Weight and Volumetric Weight pricing systems

Reduced shipping costs by 25% through efficient Volumetric Weight packaging strategies

Typical job title: "Shipping Coordinators"

Also try searching for:

Logistics Coordinator Shipping Manager Freight Coordinator Warehouse Manager Logistics Specialist Transport Coordinator Shipping Operations Manager

Where to Find Shipping Coordinators

Professional Associations

Online Communities

Job Boards

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you implement a volumetric weight pricing strategy that keeps both the company profitable and customers satisfied?

Expected Answer: A strong answer should discuss balancing customer satisfaction with business profitability, mention experience with different pricing models, and show understanding of market rates and competition.

Q: Describe a time when you improved shipping efficiency using volumetric weight calculations.

Expected Answer: Look for examples of cost savings, process improvements, or training programs they developed to help staff better understand and apply volumetric weight concepts.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you explain volumetric weight charges to customers who don't understand why they're paying for 'air'?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate ability to explain complex concepts in simple terms, show customer service skills, and knowledge of why volumetric weight is necessary for shipping operations.

Q: What factors do you consider when calculating volumetric weight?

Expected Answer: Should mention package dimensions, industry standard divisors, actual weight comparison, and understanding of different carrier requirements.

Junior Level Questions

Q: Can you explain the basic formula for calculating volumetric weight?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that it's length x width x height divided by a standard divisor (usually 5000 for international air freight), and that you compare this with actual weight.

Q: What's the difference between actual weight and volumetric weight?

Expected Answer: Should explain that actual weight is measured on scales, while volumetric weight is calculated based on package dimensions, and shipping cost is based on whichever is greater.