When you have packed up your items and are about to send them off, you have a question in mind: “How do I calculate the dimensions of my package?” If you know the dimensions, you don’t have to pay extra shipping or any other charges. It will ensure that your package arrives safely. The size of the package affects the amount you have to pay, so it is important to measure the right dimensions.
To know the exact shipping cost, measure the length, width, and height of your package. While you are shipping yourself or working with any third-party logistics (3PL) partner, you have to encounter the pricing technique. Measure the longest side, then the shorter side, and at the end, the height of the package before shipping. Let’s discuss the ways to measure your package size correctly.
Calculate the Package Dimensions for Shipping
You will need to know your box size and the exact dimensions when it is time to ship a box if you want to know your shipping rate. This ensures that you do not pay more than had to be paid for shipping or get delayed in delivery. To easily measure your package, use these steps:
Step 1: Measure the Length
The longest side of your box is its length. This side has a flap that opens and closes. To measure this side, use a tape measure or ruler.
Step 2: Measure the Width
Now measure the width of the box. This side will be less than the length. Turn the box 90 degrees and measure it from the shortest edge to get the right width.
Step 3: Measure the Height
Measure the height of the box. It includes the distance from the base of the box to the top of the box with the flaps closed. Start from the top to the bottom with your tape measure.
Step 4: Note the Measurements
After measuring, you will know the three dimensions: length, width, and finally, height. When writing them down, these should be in the order of L x W x H.
Step 5: Calculate the Volume
Next, you can calculate the volume of the package using measurements. To do this, multiply the length by the width and by the height.
Volume = L x W x H
For example:
Length = 6 inches
Width = 2 inches
Height = 8 inches
The volume is
6 x 2 x 8 = 96 cubic inches
Step 6: For an Odd Shaped Item, Measure the Girth
Packages are not necessarily rectangular, so if you need to transport tubes or round objects, you will have to calculate girth.
To calculate the girth of a rectangular package:
- Add the width and the height together.
- Multiply that sum by 2.
Example:
Width = 2 inches
Height = 8 inches
Girth = 2 x (2 + 8) = 20 inches
This is used to calculate the size of irregular packages.
How to calculate dimensional weight?
Dimensional weight (DIM weight) is the area that the package takes up in a shipping vehicle based on space, not just the weight. It helps carriers to optimize space and avoid having to charge for only heavy but small items.
- Measure the length, width, and height of your package using the longest point on all sides.
- To get the total cubic inches of the package, multiply the length, height, and width.
- To measure the dimensional weight in pounds, divide the total cubic inches by the DIM divisor (usually 139 for most carriers, such as FedEx or UPS).
- Compare the dimensional weight to the actual weight of the package.
How Much Does Shipping a Package Cost?
There are several factors on which shipping costs depend, like carrier package weight and the destination. The shipping carriers UPS, FedEx, and USPS calculate the shipping price depending on which weight is more, the actual or the dimensional weight. The shipping price depends on
- The destination
- The service level and carrier
- Actual or dimensional weight of the package
- Other services include tracking and express shipping.
- Type of packaging used
How Can You Keep Shipping Costs Low?
If you want savings on shipping costs, reduce the packing size and use lightweight packing, but do not compromise the safety of your package. If available, use flat rate options or discounts. Check the dimensions of your package to avoid paying for unused space. Here are some ways to reduce the shipping costs
- Reduced packaging: Use the small packaging boxes and be sure they will not damage the item.
- Reuse the boxes: It is not a good idea to recycle the packaging that is not in good condition.
- Compare carriers: To get the most affordable options, check the rates of different carriers.
- Flat-Rate Shipping: Take advantage of flat-rate shipping options when appropriate for your packages.
- Bulk shipping: Try to ship in bulk to get discounts on large volumes.
Conclusion
It is important to calculate your package dimensions before shipping. It helps you to avoid overpaying and unexpected charges. Know the process of measuring the length, width, and height when you ship yourself or get help from third-party logistics. Using the correct measurement steps and understanding the importance of the weight of your package, you are assured that the package will arrive safely and on time.
Use small packaging sizes to cut down shipping costs and choose the right shipping methods. For large volumes, bulk options or flat-rate options also provide savings. Avoid common mistakes like incorrectly measuring or using the damaged boxes to prevent additional fees. You can effectively manage your shipping costs by keeping these factors in mind.
