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Density Calculator
Determining a Shipment's Cubic Footage/Density
Density is one of the factors that determines the freight rate.
Shippers need to know how to calculate a shipment's density so
they can properly class their goods on the bill of lading.
To properly determine density using this form, measure the
height, width, and depth of each piece of the shipment. Measure to the farthest
points, including skids or other packaging. Enter the measeurements and corresponding
weight(s) for each piece of the shipment. Cu. Ft., Density, and Totals will
be calcualted automatically. Measurements must be in inches.
Note: This is only a guideline. If you need more
information on how cubic feet and density relate to freight rates, contact your
Performance Freight account representitive or contact
us for assistance. To see a list of freight classes based on density click
here.
Calculating Density Explained
Measure the height, width, and depth of the shipment. Measure
to the farthest points, including skids or other packaging. (On
shipments with multiple pieces, repeat this step for each piece).
Multiply the three measurements (height x width x depth). The
result is the total cubic inches (or feet) of the shipment. (If
you have multiple pieces, multiply the height x width x depth
for each piece. Take the results for each piece and add them together
to get the total cubic inches or feet.)
Divide the total cubic inches by 1,728 (the number of cubic inches
in a cubic foot). The result is the cubic feet of the shipment.
(If measuring in feet, skip this step.)
Divide the weight (in pounds) of the shipment by the total cubic
feet. The result is the pounds per cubic foot, i.e., density.
(For multiple pieces, be sure to add the weight of each piece
together before dividing by the total cubic feet of the shipment.
Round fractions to the nearest full cubic foot number).
For example, if the skid weighs 1,000 pounds with dimensions
of 40" x 48" x 48":
- 1. Multiply 40" x 48" x 48" = 92,160 cubic inches
- 2. Divide 92,160 by 1,728 = 53.33 cubic feet
- 3. Divide 1000 pounds by 53.33 cubic feet = 18.75 pounds
per cubic feet (PCF), i.e., density
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