Box SizeCalculator
Calculate the right box size for your products and estimate shipping costs with our dimensional weight calculator.
Dimensional Weight Calculator
Carriers charge based on dimensional weight or actual weight, whichever is greater. Use this guide to understand how box size affects your shipping costs.
DIM Weight Formula
DIM Weight = (L × W × H) ÷ DIM Factor
166
USPS DIM Factor
139
UPS/FedEx DIM Factor
139
DHL DIM Factor
Example Calculations
12" × 9" × 6" Box
DIM Weight: (12 × 9 × 6) ÷ 139 = 4.7 lbs
If actual weight is under 4.7 lbs, you pay for 5 lb DIM weight
18" × 14" × 12" Box
DIM Weight: (18 × 14 × 12) ÷ 139 = 21.8 lbs
If actual weight is under 21.8 lbs, you pay for 22 lb DIM weight
24" × 18" × 18" Box
DIM Weight: (24 × 18 × 18) ÷ 139 = 55.9 lbs
Large boxes have high DIM weights - right-sizing saves money!
Recommended Box Sizes by Product
Small Items (Books, Electronics)
Recommended: 10" × 8" × 6" or smaller
DIM: ~3.5 lbs
Medium Items (Clothing, Kitchenware)
Recommended: 14" × 10" × 6" to 16" × 12" × 8"
DIM: 6-11 lbs
Large Items (Small Appliances)
Recommended: 18" × 14" × 12" or similar
DIM: ~22 lbs
Bulk/Heavy Items
Recommended: Gaylords 48" × 40" × 36"
For palletized freight shipping
Cost-Saving Tips
- 1.Right-size your boxes - Use the smallest box that safely fits your product with cushioning. Oversized boxes waste money on DIM weight.
- 2.Stock 3-5 sizes - Having multiple size options lets you match box to product for optimal DIM weight.
- 3.Consider adjustable boxes - Multi-depth boxes can be folded to different heights for varying products.
- 4.Consolidate shipments - Sometimes one larger box is cheaper than multiple small ones.
Need Help Selecting the Right Size?
Our packaging experts can analyze your products and recommend optimal box sizes to minimize shipping costs.