OrientDig: How to Avoid Overweight Fees by Planning Parcels in the OrientDig Spreadsheet
International shipping can be full of hidden costs, but one of the most common and avoidable surprises is the overweight fee. At OrientDig, we believe in transparent and cost-effective shipping. This guide will show you how to use our simple spreadsheet tool to calculate your package's total weight *before* shipping, helping you avoid unexpected charges and optimize your delivery costs.
Why Overweight Fees Happen
Courier services like DHL, FedEx, and UPS use a concept called Dimensional Weight (DIM Weight)
The key to avoiding these extra charges is meticulous planning. Guessing the weight or hoping for the best is a recipe for an inflated invoice. By accurately calculating the total billable weight in advance, you can make informed decisions to repack, split shipments, or choose a more suitable service. Our free spreadsheet template is designed to make this process simple and foolproof. For each item you plan to ship, note down:
The Power of Pre-Shipment Planning
A Step-by-Step Guide to Using the OrientDig Spreadsheet
Gather Your Product Information
Input Data into the Spreadsheet
Enter the collected data into the corresponding columns of the OrientDig spreadsheet.
| Product | Quantity | Unit Weight (kg) | Package Dimensions (cm) | Total Weight (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ceramic Vase | 2 | 1.5 | 30x20x20 | 3.0 |
| Silk Scarf | 5 | 0.2 | 15x15x5 | 1.0 |
Calculate Total & Dimensional Weight
The spreadsheet will automatically:
- Calculate the Total Actual Weight
- Calculate the Total Dimensional Weight. The formula is typically: (Length x Width x Height) / DIM Divisor. The divisor is set by the courier (e.g., 5000 for cm, 139 for in).
Determine the Billable Weight
The final, chargeable weight is the greater
Example: If your box of vases has an actual weight of 4.0 kg but a dimensional weight of 5.2 kg, you will be charged for 5.2 kg.
Optimize and Take Action
Now, with a clear billable weight, you can:
- Avoid Surprises:
- Repack Smartly:
- Split Shipments:
- Repack Smartly:
Benefits of Proactive Weight Calculation
- Cost Control:
- Informed Decisions:
- Efficiency:
- Professionalism:
- Informed Decisions:
Don't let overweight fees eat into your profits. By integrating the OrientDig spreadsheet into your pre-shipping routine, you transform an unpredictable cost into a manageable and optimized expense. Plan ahead, calculate accurately, and ship with confidence.
Download the free OrientDig Parcel Planning Spreadsheet today and take control of your international shipping costs!
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