How to Choose the Right Size Box Every Time

Choosing the right size box for your shipping or packaging needs may seem like a simple task. However, many people do not know the proper procedure for choosing the right box size for their needs. Without the correct box size, you risk damaging your items, incurring higher shipping costs, or wasting time and materials. 

A box that is too big will have wasted space inside and will leave your item vulnerable to damage during shipment. A box that is too small will not properly protect your item and can lead to damaged packaging or items that are not properly insulated.  

Whether you are shipping household items, breakable products, or perishable goods, we have you covered.

With the knowledge gained from this blog post, you can confidently select the perfect packaging every time.  This will minimize the risk of damage, reduce costs, and ship with eco-friendly practices. Keep reading for tips on how to choose the right box size for specific types of items, maximizing the efficiency of your shipping process. 

How do I Choose the Right Box Size for My Shipping Needs? 

Choosing the right box size for your shipping needs is crucial to ensure the safety and cost-effectiveness of your shipment. Simply guessing or randomly selecting a box can lead to damage, higher shipping costs, and inconvenience. To choose the correct box size, you need to follow a few simple steps. 

Firstly, measure your item accurately. This includes measuring the length, width, and height of your product. Make sure to use the correct unit of measurement, such as inches or centimeters. 

Secondly, consider the weight and fragility of your item. Heavier or more fragile items may require a sturdier or larger box to provide adequate protection during transit. Additionally, consider adding cushioning materials like bubble wrap or packing paper to further safeguard your item. For heavier items, opt for bubble wrap with smaller bubbles as these are denser and more durable.  

Next, compare the internal dimensions of the shipping boxes available to your product's measurements. The dimensions listed on our website are the inside dimensions. Focus on both width and length dimensions to ensure a perfect fit. It's important to consider not only the external dimensions of the box but also the interior space for efficient packing. Remember that your item's dimensions need to be less than the dimensions of the box's interior.  

Keep in mind any specific packaging requirements your items might need.  For example, food or perishable items may require insulated packaging. Some shipping companies also have restrictions on weight or size, so it's essential to check their guidelines before selecting a box. 

By accurately measuring your item, considering its weight and fragility, and comparing the internal dimensions of available boxes, you can choose the right box size for your shipping needs every time.  

In the following sections, we will give you some tips for measuring your items, some tips on better understanding your product, how to select the right box material, and more.  

Length, Width, Height: Measuring Your Object 

When it comes to shipping items, choosing the right size box is crucial to ensure the safety of your package and minimize shipping costs. To accurately select the correct box size, you need to measure your object properly. Here's a simple procedure to help you measure any object for shipping: 

1. Length: Measure the longest side of your object from one end to the other. Use a measuring tape and record the measurement in inches or centimeters.
   
   
2. Width: Measure the widest side of your object from one edge to the other. Again, use a measuring tape and record the measurement.
   
   
3. Height: Measure the tallest side of your object from the bottom to the top. Use a measuring tape and record the measurement.
   
   

Make sure to take precise measurements, rounding up to the nearest inch or centimeter. It's important to include any extended parts or handles in your measurements. 

Once you have these dimensions, you can choose a box that provides enough space for your item without being too large. Consider the weight of your object as well to ensure it doesn't exceed the maximum weight capacity of the box. 

By following this simple procedure and accurately measuring your object's length, width, and height, you can confidently select the right size box for your shipping needs. This not only ensures the safety of your item but also helps optimize shipping costs. 

Understand Your Product 

Determine the Weight 

Determining the weight of your item is a crucial step in choosing the right size box for shipping. By accurately measuring the weight, you can select the appropriate box strength and calculate shipping costs more effectively. 

To determine the weight, use a reliable scale that is capable of measuring the weight of your item accurately. Place the item on the scale and wait for the reading to stabilize. Record the weight in pounds or kilograms, depending on the unit of measurement used by the shipping company. 

Once you have the weight, you can proceed to select the appropriate box size. Different shipping companies have different weight and size restrictions, so it's important to familiarize yourself with their guidelines. Generally, lightweight items can be packed in smaller boxes or bags, while heavier items require larger, sturdier boxes. 

By knowing the weight of your item, you can also avoid overpacking and wasting packaging materials. If your item is fragile, you may need to add additional padding such as bubble wrap or packing peanuts. The weight of these materials will also affect the total weight and shipping cost of the package. 

Choosing the right size box based on the weight of your item ensures that it is properly protected during transit and minimizes the risk of damage. Additionally, it helps you accurately calculate shipping costs, as many shipping companies factor in both the weight and dimensions of the package. 

Select the Right Box Material 

When it comes to selecting the right box for your shipping needs, one of the first considerations is the type of box material you should choose. There are several options available, but the most common and versatile choice is corrugated cardboard. 

Corrugated cardboard is known for its durability and strength, making it suitable for a wide range of items. It consists of three layers – an inner layer of fluted material sandwiched between two outer layers, providing excellent protection for your products during transit. It is also lightweight, which helps reduce shipping costs. 

For smaller and less fragile items, rigid mailers or padded envelopes can be a suitable alternative. Rigid mailers are made of heavy-duty cardboard and are best for flat objects, such as documents or photos. Padded envelopes, on the other hand, have an additional layer of padding, making them ideal for protecting lightweight and delicate items. 

When choosing box material, it's essential to consider the nature of your items. Fragile and breakable items, such as glassware or electronics, require extra cushioning and protection. In such cases, using bubble wrap or other packaging materials within the box can provide an extra layer of protection. For more valuable items, you may want to consider leaving room for more cushioning materials to ensure safe passage.  

Also take into account any additional packing materials you may need to secure your product. Bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or paper can help cushion your item and prevent it from moving around during shipping. For example, if you need 3 inches of padding around your product the box itself will need to be 6in larger than the product.

For example, stock shipping boxes are economical corrugated boxes made of 200# test C flute. This type of box is good for general use in shipping and storage. On the other hand, double-wall shipping boxes are corrugated boxes made with heavy-duty double-wall construction, meaning they are better for heavier items that need sturdier packaging. 

In addition to the type of material, accurate measurements of the box's dimensions are crucial. This includes both the external and internal measurements. The internal measurements are especially important to ensure your product fits properly and is protected during transit.  The internal dimensions of our offered boxes are listed on our website. 

By carefully selecting the right box material and accurately measuring its dimensions, you can ensure that your products are well-protected and arrive safely at their destination. This not only helps in minimizing shipping costs but also ensures customer satisfaction by delivering products in pristine condition. 

Check Weight Limits 

When it comes to choosing the right size box for your shipping needs, one of the most important considerations is weight limits. To ensure the safety of your items and avoid any mishaps during transit, it is crucial to select a box that can handle the weight of your items.

Most shipping boxes have weight limits specified by the manufacturer. These weight limits are typically based on the strength and durability of the box's materials, such as corrugated cardboard. Exceeding the weight limit can result in boxes breaking or items becoming damaged during transport.  Shipping companies require packages to be packaged in appropriate strength boxes to insure your materials. 

To determine the appropriate weight limit for your items, start by weighing your product or products. It is important to weigh them accurately, as both underestimated and overestimated weights can lead to problems. Once you have an accurate measurement, compare it to the weight limits provided by the box manufacturer or the shipping carrier. 

If your items exceed the weight limit of a standard box, consider using a custom box. Custom boxes can be tailored to accommodate heavier items and ensure their safe transportation. Additionally, when packing heavy items, it is recommended to use appropriate packing materials such as bubble wrap, wadding, or wrapping paper to provide extra protection. 

By checking weight limits and selecting the right size box accordingly, you can ensure the safe transportation of your items and avoid any potential damage during the shipping process. 

Ship the Right Way with AM Shipping Supplies 

Shipping your items safely and efficiently doesn't have to be a headache.  When you understand how to properly measure and weigh your items for shipping and how to choose the right packaging based on those measurements, it will save costs on shipping and ensure that your packages get to their destination safely.  

A superior shipping process starts with superior shipping materials from AM Shipping Supplies. At AM Shipping Supplies, we provide you with the know how and the right shipping supplies for your needs at prices that cannot be matched.  

For shipping boxes, packaging materials, stretch wrap, poly strapping, labeling, staplers, cold packaging, packaging machinery, and more, AM Shipping Supplies is here for you. 

To browse our wide range of products, click here! 

Happy with the difference AM Shipping Supplies has made for your business? Click here to leave us a five-star review!