How to measure a pallet for LTL freight
To measure a pallet for LTL freight you need four numbers: length, width, height and weight, all taken with the shipment packed the way it will ship.
Length, width and height
Measure each side at its longest point. If the load overhangs the pallet, measure the overhang, not the pallet. Measure height from the floor to the highest point of the load, so the pallet itself is included.
Weight
Weigh the piece as it will ship: goods, packaging and pallet together. Do not estimate the pallet's weight if you can weigh the whole piece.
More than one piece
Measure and weigh each different piece separately. Pieces that are identical can be entered once with a quantity. To get the density of the whole shipment, add the volumes and add the weights; do not average the densities.
Common mistakes
- Measuring the pallet instead of the load that overhangs it.
- Leaving the pallet out of the height or the weight.
- Measuring before the shipment is wrapped or banded.
- Mixing inches and centimeters, or pounds and kilograms, in the same calculation.
Keep the evidence
Keep a photo of each piece with the tape measure visible and a record of the scale reading. If a carrier later reweighs or remeasures the shipment, you will have something to compare against.
Carrier rules
Carriers can apply their own measurement and rounding rules. Check your carrier's rules or ask your broker; this guide does not replace them.
Ready to calculate? Use the freight density calculator.