How Do I Measure My Shipment Correctly?

Accurate shipment measurements help ShipTime return the right courier options and reduce the risk of additional charges after your shipment is processed.

Couriers may remeasure packages at their facilities, so it’s important to enter the package dimensions as accurately as possible when creating your shipment.

How should I measure my package?

Use a reliable tape measure.
Measure the package carefully and double-check your results.
Measure the widest points.
Record the package’s full length, width, and height, including any bulges, handles, or parts of the packaging that extend beyond the main box.
Round up partial measurements.
If a measurement is not a whole number, round up to the next whole number. For example:
- 16.5 in → 17 in
- 54.2 cm → 55 cm
Measure the finished package.
Take your measurements after the shipment is fully packed, sealed, and ready to ship.

Why are accurate dimensions important?

Accurate dimensions help:

generate more accurate shipping quotes
determine which courier services are available
calculate dimensional weight correctly
reduce the risk of carrier adjustments or additional charges
ensure the shipment meets the courier’s size requirements

What happens if my measurements are incorrect?

Couriers may verify the package dimensions and weight after pickup.

If the courier’s measurements differ from the information entered when the shipment was created, an adjustment charge may be applied.

Even small differences can affect the billable weight or trigger additional handling or oversize charges, depending on the courier and service.

Tips for measuring accurately

Measure every shipment rather than relying on the dimensions printed on an old box.
Include any part of the packaging that sticks out.
Avoid estimating dimensions.
Double-check the weight as well as the dimensions before purchasing the label.
If reusing a box, measure it after it has been packed and sealed.

For more shipping and packaging guidance, see:

If you have questions about package dimensions or a carrier adjustment, contact our Heroic Support™ team.

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