The freight density measures how heavy a package is relative to the size of the package. A package with a weights a lot relative to its size, such as densely packed books. A package with a low freight density weighs little relative to its size, such as a box filled with Styrofoam. When negotiating freight rates with shipping companies, you may need to know the freight density of the packages you plan to send.

1.) Measure the length, width and height of the object in inches with a measuring tape.

2.) Multiply the length times the width times the height to calculate the volume of the package. For example, if the package measures 20 inches by 26 inches by 30 inches, multiply 20 by 26 by 30 to find the volume equals 15,600 cubic inches. If you need the volume in cubic feet, divide the number of cubic inches by 1,728. For example, divide 15,600 by 1,728 to get approximately 9.03 cubic feet.

3.) Weigh the freight in pounds on a scale.