How is shipping weight calculated on Vendora?
Shipping price is calculated using the higher of:
- the actual weight of the parcel, or
- the volumetric weight, based on the parcel’s dimensions.
This is standard practice used by courier companies.
What is volumetric weight?
Volumetric weight reflects how much space a parcel occupies, not how heavy it is.
It’s calculated using the standard courier / IATA formula:
(Length × Width × Height) ÷ 5000
If the volumetric weight is higher than the actual weight, shipping price is based on the volumetric weight.
Volumetric pricing is a standard courier policy used worldwide. Vendora applies the same rules required by courier companies to ensure accurate pricing and successful delivery.
Where do I enter parcel weight and size?
Depending on the step, you may be asked in different ways.
When listing an item or sending a payment request
You select:
- Parcel weight range (e.g. 3-4 kg)
- Parcel size (Flat / Shoebox / Large / Extra Large)
These sizes are based on real courier and locker dimensions.
This step pre-calculates the shipping price shown to the buyer.
* Why do we ask for parcel size when creating a listing?
We request the parcel size at the listing stage so that when a buyer clicks “Buy Now,” the shipping cost can be calculated automatically and shown instantly. To do this accurately, Vendora needs the estimated parcel size in advance.
* Don’t worry about bundles.
If multiple items are purchased in one transaction, the parcel size can be updated before shipping so that the correct shipping cost and courier options are applied.
When creating the shipping label
Some couriers require exact parcel dimensions for shipment label generation.
You may be asked to enter the parcel’s length, width, and height after approving the order, just before shipping the item (under Instructions & Shipping).
Please note that this step is required only by certain couriers.
These values are used to confirm the volumetric weight required by the courier.
Why do I have to select both weight and size?
Volumetric weight reflects how much space the parcel takes up during transport.
For example, a large but lightweight item (like a pillow) may weigh very little, but it still occupies a lot of space in a van or locker. In that case, shipping is calculated based on size – not kilos.
Why this matters
Providing accurate information helps prevent:
- Courier rejection at drop-off if the parcel size or weight doesn’t match the booking
- Locker incompatibility (the parcel doesn’t fit in the selected locker)
- Unexpected extra charges or shipping delays
- Having to cancel the transaction and start over
Entering the correct weight and size ensures smooth and accurate shipping.
Why can shipping feel expensive for light items?
Large but light parcels take up more space during transport.
Even if they don’t weigh much, couriers charge based on the space they occupy – this is why volumetric weight applies.
Which parcel size should I choose?
Always choose the size that fits your packaged parcel, not just the item itself.
Examples:
- Books, documents → Flat & compact
- Shoes, clothes → Shoebox
- Jackets, kitchen items → Larger box
- Instruments, sports gear → Extra Large
💡 Tip: If your item is light but bulky or has unusual dimensions (e.g. long like ski equipment or large but flat like a painting), size may matter more than weight.
In these cases, shipping is usually calculated based on volumetric weight rather than kilos.
Why is Box Now not available for some items?
Some items exceed the maximum dimensions allowed in BOX NOW lockers.
In these cases, Box Now will automatically appear as unavailable, and Vendora will display only the couriers that can accommodate your parcel.
This helps prevent failed shipping attempts and courier rejections.
Does this affect existing listings?
For certain categories, Vendora may suggest a parcel size or ask you to enter the exact dimensions before you accept the transaction.
This helps ensure:
- the right shipping options are shown (lockers/couriers that can actually handle the parcel)
- the shipment won’t be rejected at drop-off
- the transaction goes through smoothly for both buyer and seller without cancellations or rebooking
Still have questions or need help from Vendora Support? Send us a message.
