CargoWise ERP Glossary - Key Terms & FAQs

Our CargoWise ERP Glossary Terms provide clear, concise definitions of key terms used in CargoWise, helping users navigate the system with confidence. Along with these definitions, we've included in-depth FAQs to clarify complex concepts, ensuring you get the most out of your CargoWise solutions.

Volume-Based Freight Pricing

Last updated: August 12, 2025
Logistics CargoWise
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Volume-based freight Pricing is a pricing approach in logistics in which freight charges are set based on the amount of cargo rather than weight. This concept is especially beneficial for delivering big but lightweight commodities like furniture, electronics, or plastics, where the space used by the delivery vehicle is more important than the actual weight. Carriers ensure appropriate remuneration for the space their goods occupy by pricing based on volume, allowing for optimal load planning and transportation efficiency.

In this pricing approach, volume is usually measured in cubic meters (CBM) or cubic feet, and freight costs are determined using volume conversion factors. Volume-based pricing helps to avoid situations in which low-weight cargo occupies disproportionate space, thereby affecting profitability if charged merely by weight. It additionally encourages shipping companies to improve their packaging and consolidation procedures, resulting in cost savings and environmental benefits through optimal space utilization. This approach is widely used in air, sea, and road freight services, and it is frequently integrated into logistics management systems such as CargoWise to automate pricing computations and billing accuracy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does volume-based freight pricing entail?

It is a way of determining freight charges that takes into account the physical volume of the cargo rather than the weight. This guarantees that heavy yet lightweight items are priced equitably based on the amount of space they occupy.

Why do logistics companies charge volume-based pricing?

This pricing prevents carriers from losing income on large, light packages that require a lot of room. It also promotes efficient packing and load balancing.

How is volume calculated for freight pricing purposes?

The cargo's volume is calculated in cubic meters (CBM) or cubic feet, based on its length, width, and height. These measures are translated into freight rates based on agreed-upon conversion factors.

Which categories of cargo gain the most from this price structure?

Bulky but lightweight commodities such as furniture, electronics, and plastics are better suited for volume pricing because their size has a greater impact on transit space than weight.

Is volume-based freight pricing enabled by CargoWise?

Yes, CargoWise has functionality for calculating freight rates depending on volume, which ensures correct billing and assists logistics providers in optimizing pricing strategies.