Gross vs. Net vs. Dimensional Weight, Shipping Efficiency Explained Simply

What Problems StarShip Shipping Software Solves (re: Gross / Dimensional Weight)

Because carriers bill by whichever is greater, “actual (gross) weight” or “dimensional (volumetric) weight” — it’s easy to get hit with unexpectedly high shipping charges if package dimensions aren’t accounted for. 

StarShip integrated shipping software helps mitigate those risks by:

• Automatically tracking and storing packaging dimensions and weights (box size, package weight, packaging material) for each product or “packaging scenario.” https://ask.vtechnologies.com/kb/packaging/ 
• Allowing users to pre-define packaging scenarios (e.g. “small box,” “pallet,” “crate,” etc.) including both dimensions and weight of the empty packaging — so the system knows both the “volume” and actual weight components. 
• Using those packaging scenarios to auto-pack items when fulfilling orders. That means when you ship (say) 100 units, StarShip automatically determines how many boxes/pallets you need based on saved scenarios, including correct dimensions/packaging-weight calculation. 
• Automatically calculating total shipment weight (product + correct packaging), and providing that data alongside package dimensions,  enabling accurate comparison between gross weight and DIM weight. 
• Enabling multi-carrier, multi-mode shipping (parcel + LTL) including regional carriers, which allows you to “rate shop” across many carriers — and pick the one whose pricing (considering both weight and dimensions) is most cost-effective. 

How StarShip Fits Into ERP / Warehouse / Order Workflow (Reducing Errors & Friction)

• StarShip integrates with many ERPs and e-commerce platforms (e.g., QuickBooks, Sage 100 / Sage 300, Acumatica, Microsoft Dynamics GP / 365 BC, SAP B1, and many more) as well as e-commerce/webshop integrations (Amazon, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, etc.) 
• Because shipping data (weights, dimensions, packaging, item info) flows directly from the ERP/order-entry system, manual re-entry is eliminated, reducing data-entry errors, mismatches, or omissions.
• Shipping labels, packing slips, and documentation (including for international or LTL freight) can be generated automatically, accurately reflecting weight and dimensions — so shipping departments don’t need to manually recalc/doublecheck every shipment. 
• The built-in dashboards and reporting give visibility to shipping history, cost by carrier, types of packaging used, and shipment metrics — enabling auditability and continuous optimization (e.g. identifying over-dimensional packages, rethinking packaging strategies, or consolidating shipments). 

What That Means for SMBs / Distributors / eCommerce + 3PL Users

By using StarShip to manage packaging and shipping:

• You avoid surprise shipping charges resulting from underestimating dimensional weight (important for light but bulky items).
• You reduce overpaying when gross weight is low but volume is high (through better packaging choices, more efficient packing, or selecting a more suitable carrier or service).
• You minimize manual errors — less re-weighing, fewer mis-entered dimensions, fewer label/invoice mismatches.
• You speed up the fulfillment process (auto-pack, auto-label, integrate with ERP), which reduces labor costs and order-to-ship time.
• You gain actionable data to optimize packaging strategies, carrier mix, packaging materials, and overall shipping spend over time.

What do we Know About StarShip's Real-World Usage/Customer Base

• Over 5,000 companies trust StarShip integrated shipping software, a public listing of "customer database / companies using StarShip" names several firms as users, e.g., Batdorf & Bronson Coffee Roasters (also “Dancing Goats Coffee Bars”), , Rowley Company, and a number of small-to-mid-sized manufacturing / distribution companies. Crestwood Associates, a leading Acumatica partner shares customer Crown Metal Manufacturing as well.
• StarShip supports a broad set of integrations: ERP/accounting systems (e.g. QuickBooks, Sage 100 / Sage 300, Acumatica, SAP Business One, Dynamics GP/365 BC, etc.) as well as e-commerce platforms (Amazon, Magento, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, etc.). 
• StarShip is designed for multi-carrier, multi-mode shipping (parcel + regional parcel + LTL freight), rate-shopping, label/packing slip automation, and shipping-workflow automation — theoretically enabling companies to pick the cheapest appropriate carrier and avoid manual shipping errors / inefficiencies.  

The Final Word on Managing Shipping Weight Challenges

Choosing the right shipping software isn’t just about printing labels;  it’s about controlling costs, eliminating errors, and ensuring your logistics operation scales with your business. StarShip by V-Technologies directly addresses the three biggest weight-related challenges SMBs face:  gross weight, net weight, and dimensional weight,  through automation, ERP integration, accurate rating, and intelligent packaging tools. By combining real-time carrier calculations with predefined packaging scenarios and auto-packing logic, StarShip helps businesses avoid costly DIM-weight surprises, reduce manual workflows, and ship smarter every day.

Whether you manage a small warehouse or a multi-location distribution operation, StarShip provides the structure, accuracy, and cost visibility needed to ship efficiently and profitably. With better data, tighter workflows, and integrated shipping intelligence, companies gain the confidence that every shipment goes out with the right weight, the right carrier, and the right cost,  every time.