How is irregular-shaped parcel adjustment applied in dimensional weight calculations?

How is irregular-shaped parcel adjustment applied in dimensional weight calculations?

• A. Multiply by 0.785, then divide by 194
• B. Divide by 194, then multiply by 0.785
• C. Add 0.5 to the result, then divide by 194
• D. Multiply by 1.25, then divide by 194

Answer: (A)

Dimensional weight uses the parcel’s size, but irregular-shaped items don’t fit perfectly in a rectangular box. To account for that, USPS applies an irregular-shaped parcel adjustment by multiplying the parcel’s volume (length × width × height in cubic inches) by 0.785. This factor tightens the volume to reflect how efficiently the space is used by an irregular shape. After applying this adjustment, you divide by 194 to convert the adjusted cubic inches into pounds of dimensional weight. This number is then compared to the actual weight to determine the charge. So you multiply by 0.785 to adjust the volume, then divide by 194 to get the dimensional weight.