TFTruck Freight Calculator

Shipment measurements

Pallet Density and Dimensional Weight Calculator Guide

Measure palletized freight correctly and understand why LTL density is not the same calculation as a parcel dimensional-weight divisor.

Direct answer

For this LTL worksheet, packaged density is total pounds divided by total cubic feet. Parcel and air dimensional-weight programs may instead divide cubic inches by a carrier-specific divisor, so do not move a divisor from another mode into an LTL class calculation.

What changes the result?

A useful calculation starts with the physical scope and the written commercial terms. These are the factors to make explicit:

  • Maximum packaged length, width and height
  • Pallet, packaging and product weight
  • Handling-unit count
  • Overhang and non-stackability
  • Carrier measurement and rounding rules

Use one scope for every quote

Give each business the same information and ask it to resolve the same boundaries. That makes the totals more comparable and exposes work left as an allowance or exclusion.

  1. Measure after wrapping and strapping
  2. Use the furthest outside points
  3. Record each non-identical unit separately
  4. Photograph irregular or non-stackable freight

Use the completed handling unit

A nominal 48 × 40 pallet does not prove the shipment stays within that footprint. Include cartons, crates, overhang, protective corners and top protection in the maximum dimensions.

LTL density and parcel DIM weight answer different questions

LTL density expresses pounds per cubic foot and can feed classification. Parcel or air dimensional weight converts occupied volume into a billable-weight comparison using a service-specific divisor. Always use the method in the applicable rules.

Irregular freight needs more than three numbers

Tell the carrier about overlength, overhang, non-stackability, fragile surfaces, unusual handling and liftgate constraints. A cube calculation does not communicate those operating conditions.

Questions people ask

Do pallet dimensions include overhang?

Yes. Measure the furthest packaged points, not only the wood pallet footprint.

Should pallet weight be included?

Yes. Use total tendered weight including pallet, crate, wrap and other packaging.

Is LTL density the same as dimensional weight?

No. Density is pounds per cubic foot. Dimensional weight often uses a carrier-specific cubic-inch divisor for another mode or service.

How do I enter different-sized pallets?

Calculate and document them separately rather than pretending they are identical. The current worksheet's quantity field is for identical handling units.

Method and sources

The model is a planning tool, not a quotation. These are the published sources used for this page; read the full assumptions before relying on a range. Source review: 14 September 2026.

Review full methodology