At times, packaging products for shipping can seem like a science. You need the correct combination of box and material to ensure your product is as safe as it can be. But do the details really matter that much?
It doesn’t seem like there’s that much harm in using slightly oversized or undersized boxes. How much difference can a few centimeters make? So does box size matter when shipping your products? Let’s take a look.
Does Box Size Matter?
The short answer is that, yes, box size matters. Shipping your products in an ill-fitting box can result in extra charges, product damage, and other costly consequences.
Product Damage
If you use a box that’s too small, there won’t be enough cushioning to protect your product. If you use a box that’s too big, your product is likely to shift during transportation and sustain bumps and bruises along the way.
Additional Charges
Most carriers use something called dimensional (DIM) weight to determine the final shipping costs. A DIM weight formula takes both the weight and size of the box into account when calculating costs. The larger number determines what your package will cost to ship. So if your product is as small and light as a feather, don’t ship it in a massive box. You’ll end up paying the same charges as if you were shipping a heavy flat-screen TV.
How To Choose the Right Box
So box size does matter when shipping your products. But that begs the question, “How do I make sure I’m using the right box?” You should keep a few things in mind when choosing a box for your products. Here’s what you need to know.
Product Size
The first step is to take your product’s measurements—length, width, and height. Keep these measurements in mind when selecting a box. Ideally, you want a box that’s slightly bigger than your product. You’ll have enough room to add cushioning but not so much room that your product can shift around freely.
Product Weight
Is your product lightweight? Corrugated mailers are an economical choice. They’re small, easy to assemble, and very protective. For heavier products, use heavy-duty double-wall corrugated boxes for maximum protection.
Product Type
What kind of product are you shipping? Certain items require more consideration than others.
Is it a sturdy product or a delicate one? Heavy-duty corrugated boxes are ideal for fragile items. Remember: you might need a bigger box than usual because delicate items require more packaging material.
Are you shipping a perishable item? You can use a regular box and fill it with insulated packaging materials, but insulated boxes are a more practical option.
What Are My Options?
There are dozens of box types, each designed to accommodate different kinds of products. Pantero has every box type you could ever need. Our reverse tuck cartons are perfect for shipping small parts, while our heavy-duty boxes are ideal for heavy or delicate items. Come and shop with us today, or contact us to discuss creating custom boxes for your business.
