Worked example · Handy Orchard
Calculate mixed parcels separately
A two-box example shows why adding weights and volumes first can understate the result.
Set up two different parcels
Use centimeters and kilograms with divisor 5000 and upward 0.5 kg rounding. Parcel A measures 40 × 30 × 20 cm and weighs 3 kg. Parcel B measures 30 × 20 × 15 cm and weighs 4 kg. They are separate physical packages, so run the calculator twice with quantity 1.
Calculate each chargeable weight
Parcel A: 24,000 ÷ 5000 = 4.8 kg dimensional weight. The higher of 4.8 and 3 is 4.8; rounding produces 5 kg. Parcel B: 9000 ÷ 5000 = 1.8 kg dimensional weight. Actual weight, 4 kg, is higher and is already on a rounding step. The combined estimated chargeable weight is 5 + 4 = 9 kg.
Why a combined shortcut fails
Adding volumes first gives 33,000 cm³, or 6.6 kg dimensional weight. Adding actual weights gives 7 kg. Comparing only those two totals would suggest 7 kg, missing 2 kg from the per-parcel result. The maximum and rounding operations must be applied at the level required by your service, not automatically after aggregation.
Use quantity only for identical inputs
For two parcels identical to A, enter its dimensions, 3 kg actual weight and quantity 2. Each parcel rounds to 5 kg, giving 10 kg total. Quantity does not describe mixed dimensions or mixed packed weights. Keep a separate row or downloaded summary for each distinct package type.
Confirm how your carrier aggregates shipments
DHL’s weight guidance describes calculating packages individually. Your agreement may have shipment minimums, special multi-piece rules or other aggregation steps. This tool estimates weight, not a booked rate, and does not validate the service’s maximum dimensions. Ask the carrier which steps happen per piece and which happen per shipment.
Source and scope
The worked figures here are illustrative calculations by Handy Orchard. The provider reference explains the context; your product instructions or shipping agreement take priority.
DHL: package dimensions and chargeable weight
Who makes these tools
Handy Orchard makes free calculators for everyday planning: buying flooring, sizing a photo print and comparing parcel packaging. We show the inputs, formulas and worked examples so you can check the result before making a purchase.