How to measure the sizes of shipping boxes

02/08/2024

Measuring the sizes of shipping boxes is an essential step in determining the style, shape of the cardboard packaging and calculating the packaging cost. In addition, measuring the standard size of the shipping box will ensure that the goods are protected in the best conditions.

So, how can size of boxes be measured accurately to achieve efficiency and optimize costs? Let's find out with Khang Thanh through this article.

How to measure the size of boxes

The delivery cardboard box is a suitable packaging solution for various products, from electronics, furniture, clothing, and household appliances. Therefore, you must accurately identify the goods to measure the standard shipping box sizes.

Steps to measure sizes of shipping boxes

The standard boxes sizes include 3 parameters:

Measure the length (L): Use a ruler to measure the longest edge according to the surface of the cardboard box.
Measure the width (W): Measure the shorter edge of the shipping box. However, if the basic size of the box is square, the width can be equal to the length.
Measure the height (H): This is the depth of the box, measured from the bottom to the lid or the highest point of the box. In other words, this is the size of the edge perpendicular to the length and width.

After having the 3 basic parameters above, apply the following formula to calculate the standard cardboard box sizes: Length X Width X Height = Volume (Unit).

There are 5 standard units used in the production of shipping boxes applied globally: millimetres (mm), centimetres (cm), meters (m), inches (in), or feet (ft). You must ensure these 3 basic parameters are in the same unit.

Notes to choose the correct box size

In addition to determining the 3 parameters of length, width and height, the following notes will cover the selection of cardboard shipping boxes to optimize the protective role while saving costs.

Add 0.25 – 0.5 cm for a convenient unboxing experience
Calculate extra space for inserting materials such as paper strips and shrink film to protect products
Choose the suitable material and wave of corrugated distribution to avoid wasting storage space

>>> The characteristics of cardboard boxes in the packaging industry

Standard box sizes for shipping

The standard cardboard box sizes are the common dimensions used for mass production in large quantities and are widely used by packing shipping, or manufacturing companies.

Basic small sizes of shipping boxes

Small snap-lid cardboard boxes, also known as mailer boxes, are basic sizes for storing compact, light items and delivering within a close radius, such as clothes, cosmetics, jewellery, notebooks, and books.

The sizes of small shipping boxes that you can easily order in large are:

4 x 4 x 2 inch
6 x 4 x 2 inch
8 x 6 x 2 inch
9 x 6 x 3 inch
12 x 9 x 4 inch
14 x 10 x 4 inch

Popular medium standard size boxes

For items like kitchenware, small electronics, toys, and shoes, or sports equipment, medium sizes of boxes are the ideal choice. In addition to the popular rectangular shape, medium shipping boxes come in various shapes, such as square boxes, long cardboard, or flat boxes for delivery.

Refer to common standard box sizes such as:

14 x 10 x 10 inch
16 x 12 x 8 inch
12 x 12 x 12 inch
18 x 14 x 6 inch
20 x 16 x 4 inch

Big shipping and packing boxes

Giant cardboard box sizes are essential for transporting bulky and oversized products such as household items, large kitchen appliances, electronics or furniture.

Thanks to its durability, the spacious design of the shipping box will help the transportation process, as well as the opening and closing of big goods, become smooth and avoid collisions and losses.

You can buy big cardboard packaging available in the following standard size boxes:

24 x 18 x 18 inch
30 x 20 x 20 inch
24 x 24 x 24 inch
36 x 24 x 6 inch
36 x 18 x 18 inch

Custom size of boxes on request

If the standard boxes sizes does not fit the items, then the step of customizing the sizes of shipping boxes on request will be the perfect choice. In addition to meeting the manufacturer's specific requirements, customizing the standard cardboard box sizes will improve the delivery experience for both customers.

However, it should be noted that the cost of customizing the standard box sizes is relatively high for oversized or extra large cardboard boxes. In addition, you should choose a packaging company specializing in producing shipping boxes with full modern machinery and human resources to meet the customization requirements.

>>> Cardboard wine boxes: Convenient packaging solution

Where to buy cardboard shipping boxes?

When looking for a place to buy cardboard boxes for shipping, the essential points to consider are price, quantity, quality, and specific needs.

Buy ready-made standard size boxes in small quantity

For small businesses or individuals who need boxes quickly in small quantities, the following locations are suitable:

Local packaging stores
Stationery store
Wholesale clubs such as Costco, Sam's Club, Walmart, Target
E-commerce platforms like Amazon, eBay, Alibaba

The common advantage of these retailers is that they are available and you can buy standard size shipping boxes immediately in urgent need. However, they only sell popular sizes, medium and small cardboard boxes at high prices.

>>> 5 Unique recycling ideas for cardboard boxes

Order and produce shipping boxes in bulk at affordable prices

So, for large businesses and manufacturers who need specific packaging solutions and get discounts when buying in bulk, which option is suitable?

Choosing an OEM/ODM cardboard packaing supplier to order large shipping boxes to optimize costs and finished products that meet export packaging quality and domestic needs.

At Khang Thanh, we not only provide comprehensive packaging solutions from design, prepress, printing, and finished products but also focus on cost efficiency, customizing suitable delivery packaging, and quality control.

Choosing the suitable sizes of shipping boxes is essential because they bring comprehensive benefits. More specifically, goods can be transported safely, and manufacturers can save on costs. In addition, less packaging material leads to less waste, contributing to more efficient, sustainable transportation and production activities.

Don't rush to pack and ship, let Khang Thanh help you measure, design and advise on choosing the most accurate sizes of shipping boxes.

Leave the messages or contact us directly at:

KHANG THANH – HOUSE OF PACKAGING
Tel: +84 (0) 77 8878 222
Email: info@khangthanh.com