Overview

Amazon has introduced a new method for calculating Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) fees that incorporates dimensional weight. Effective immediately, the system compares a product’s actual weight with its calculated volumetric weight and applies the higher value to determine the fee tier. Sellers with items that are light but occupy large boxes should expect higher per‑unit costs unless they reduce package size.

Key Points

• Dimensional weight supersedes actual weight when larger — Amazon now selects the greater of the two measurements to place a SKU in a fee tier.
• Volumetric formula — Multiply length, width and height in centimeters, then divide the product by 5,000 to obtain the weight in kilograms.
• All packaging counts — The dimensions of any poly bag, box, or cushioning material are included in the calculation.
• Scope of fees affected — The change applies to standard fulfillment fees, network handling fees, and the processing fees for customer returns.
• Exempt categories — Envelope‑type items, very small standard‑size products, and certain oversize SKUs continue to rely solely on actual weight.
• Targeted product types — Items such as pillows, plush toys, and bulky plastics that are light but require large parcels are the most vulnerable to fee increases.

How Dimensional Weight Works

1. Measure packaged dimensions — Record the length, width and height of the product as it will leave the fulfillment center, including any protective wrapping.
   Example: A plush toy packed in a 30 cm × 25 cm × 20 cm box measures 30 × 25 × 20 = 15,000 cm³.

2. Calculate volumetric weight — Divide the cubic centimeter total by 5,000.
   Example: 15,000 ÷ 5,000 = 3 kg (volumetric weight).

3. Compare with actual weight — Retrieve the SKU’s real weight from the product listing.
   Example: The plush toy’s actual weight is 0.8 kg.