3D Printing Shipping Calculator
Estimate the shipping cost for a 3D printed order using packed weight, package dimensions, carrier rate and handling fees.
Overview
Use this 3D printing shipping calculator to estimate parcel delivery charges from the packed weight, outside box dimensions, your carrier's dimensional-weight divisor and the applicable fees. It is useful when a lightweight printed part needs a larger protective box and may be billed by size rather than scale weight.
How it works
The calculator first works out the parcel volume by multiplying its length, width and height. It divides that volume by the dimensional divisor to estimate dimensional weight. The chargeable weight is the higher of dimensional weight and actual packed weight. The estimated shipping cost then adds the weight-based charge to the base shipping charge and packing or handling fee. Many carriers use rate bands, minimum charges and rounding increments, so the final carrier price may differ.
How to use this calculator
- 1Enter the total packed weight, including the print, box and protective materials.
- 2Measure the external length, width and height of the finished parcel.
- 3Enter the dimensional-weight divisor used by your chosen carrier.
- 4Add the carrier's per-kilogram rate and any fixed shipping or handling charges.
- 5Review the estimated total and chargeable weight before creating the shipment.
Example Calculation
Packed weight
0.5
Package length
25
Package width
20
Package height
15
Dimensional weight divisor
5000
Carrier rate
$12
Base shipping charge
$4
Packing and handling fee
$2
Estimated shipping cost
$24.00
The 25 × 20 × 15 cm parcel has a dimensional weight of 1.50 kg, which exceeds its 0.50 kg packed weight. At a rate of 12 per kg, plus 4 base charge and 2 handling, the estimated shipping cost is 24.00.
Frequently asked questions
What is dimensional weight for 3D printed items?
Dimensional weight is a carrier billing weight calculated from a parcel's external volume. It can be higher than actual weight when a light print needs a relatively large box or substantial protective packaging.
Why is my chargeable weight higher than the packed weight?
Many carriers charge the greater of actual weight and dimensional weight. This reflects the space a parcel occupies in a vehicle or aircraft, not only its mass.
What should I include in packed weight?
Include the finished print, supports if shipped with it, packaging, tape, labels, inserts and all protective materials. Use the weight of the sealed parcel where possible.
What dimensional divisor should I use?
Use the divisor published for your specific carrier and service. A divisor of 5000 cm³ per kg is common in some services, but it is not universal.
Does this calculator include customs duties and taxes?
No. Import duties, VAT or sales tax, brokerage charges and destination-specific fees are not included unless you add them to a charge field yourself.
How can I reduce shipping costs for 3D prints?
Use packaging that protects the part without excessive empty space, compare carrier services, and check whether a smaller box reduces dimensional weight. Ensure fragile parts still have adequate protection.
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Assumptions and warnings
Assumptions
- The shipment is charged using the greater of actual packed weight and dimensional weight.
- The carrier rate is applied evenly to every billable kilogram, without weight brackets or rounding rules.
- The estimate includes only the base charge, handling fee and per-kilogram rate you enter.
- Taxes, import duties, remote-area fees, fuel surcharges, insurance and signature services are excluded unless included in your entered charges.
Warnings
- This calculator provides an estimate only; carrier pricing, dimensional divisors and weight-rounding rules can vary by service and destination.
- Confirm the final quote with the selected carrier before charging a customer or purchasing postage.