Get a quote that matches the parcel you hand over—not a smaller, unpacked version. Measure every piece after it’s packed and sealed, and keep the details with the order.
Ready to price your packed parcel? Start on Send to see the options and prices that apply.
What should you measure for an accurate parcel quote?
Record the outside length, width and height, plus the packed weight. For a lumpy or irregular parcel, use its outermost points—including protrusions, handles, padding and bulges—not just its flattest surfaces.
What to have ready before measuring
- The parcel fully packed and closed, with cushioning and tape in place.
- A tape measure and a scale.
- A note of the units requested in the quote form.
- A separate set of measurements for each parcel in the order.
Does parcel size matter as well as weight?
A quote may take parcel dimensions into account as well as packed weight, especially for a large, light shipment. Enter the measurements requested by the form; don’t guess or borrow a dimensional-weight formula from another carrier.
How to measure a lumpy parcel: 5 steps
- Finish packing and seal the parcel before you measure or weigh it.
- Imagine the parcel inside a snug rectangular outline that reaches its furthest points in every direction.
- Measure the longest outer side as the length. Measure across the other two directions for width and height.
- Include every bulge, handle, padded section and closed flap that extends the parcel’s outer shape.
- Weigh the finished parcel and write down its packed weight alongside all three dimensions.
Final checks before you book
- Check that you measured the outside, not the inside of a box.
- Confirm the parcel is closed and the packaging is included in both the measurements and weight.
- If the order has multiple pieces, measure and weigh each one separately.
- Keep the finished parcel available for a recheck at handover.
Common measuring mistakes to avoid
- Measuring the item before adding its box, padding or other packaging.
- Using only the parcel’s narrowest or flattest surfaces and missing a protrusion.
- Entering the largest parcel’s measurements for every piece in a multi-parcel order.
- Mixing units or estimating dimensions instead of measuring the packed parcel.
Get your delivery price with the parcel details ready
A repeatable measure-and-record routine helps you prepare orders with less back-and-forth. Enter your packed parcel details on Send now to see the options and prices that apply.
