Why Choosing the Right Box Size Matters When You Ship Packages from Home

If you prefer to save time and money by purchasing shipping labels online and shipping packages from home, then the task of choosing the right box also falls on your shoulders. Why does choosing the right box size matter in this situation? Let’s figure it out together.

First and foremost, the right box size protects the package contents from damage. If the box is too small, there won’t be enough space for padding to protect the contents from external impact. If the box is too large, there will be too much free space inside. Even if you fill all that space with void filler, the contents may still jostle around during transport. For this reason, it is recommended that you use a box that is just the right size for your items and a moderate layer of padding.

The second reason to choose the right box size is to reduce shipping costs. To understand how package size affects shipping costs, it helps to understand how pricing works. Most postal and courier companies charge based on the gross or dimensional weight of a package, whichever is greater.

Gross weight is the combined weight of the items, void filler, and box, that is, the actual weight of your package. Dimensional weight is calculated using a special formula based on the package’s length, width, and height. It reflects how much space the package occupies. Generally, small but heavy packages are charged by gross weight, while large but lightweight packages are charged by dimensional weight.

Choosing the right box size reduces the dimensional weight of your package and, consequently, its shipping cost (unless you’re shipping heavy items, which are charged by gross weight). Additionally, if the box is too large, you will have to pay more void filler, such as bubble wrap or packing peanuts. Excessive void filler not only adds to shipping costs, but also generates more waste.

However, you must ensure that the box isn’t too small because, as mentioned above, a box that is too small won’t provide enough protection for the package contents.

Choosing the right box size is also important for flat rate shipping, which is another pricing option. With this option, the carrier offers several standard flat-rate boxes, each with a fixed shipping price. If you choose flat rate shipping, select the box that best fits your item or items because if the box is too large, you will have to pay more.

The next reason to choose the right box size is particularly important for online retailers because it is critical for customer satisfaction. Oversized packages not only increase shipping costs, compromise product safety and generate more waste, but may also contribute to a negative perception of the retailer.

Some customers may be inconvenienced by an unnecessarily bulky package. Others are disappointed when the package size creates a misleading impression of the product. Additionally, some customers may view oversized packaging as a sign of inefficiency or a lack of care on the retailer’s part, which can reduce their trust in the company’s attention to detail. Finally, environmentally conscious customers may be frustrated by the environmental impact of excessive packing materials.

In short, choosing the right box size is important because it protects the contents more effectively, minimizing the risk of damage during shipping, as well as reduces the amount of void filler needed and lowers shipping costs by keeping the dimensional weight down. For retailers, it also helps create a more positive impression on customers.