Any package sent by a courier, regardless if it is domestic or international, will have restrictions on the maximum combined length and girth of each package you send. This is often referred to as the ‘Max Girth’. How do you measure the girth of a package?
How do you measure the girth of a package? 4 Pro Tips!
Ever shipped a package that seemed “normal” but ended up costing a small fortune? The culprit might be something you’ve never heard of: girth of a package. Don’t worry, it’s not some mythical shipping beast! It’s just the “thickness” of your package, and it can have a surprising impact on your shipping costs.
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Why Does Girth Matter?
Imagine a conveyor belt packed with boxes. Bulky, oddly shaped packages can jam things up, slow everything down, and even damage other shipments. So, shipping companies set limits on both length and girth of a package (think package “thickness”) to keep things flowing smoothly.
What is the Girth of a Package?
Girth, by definition, is the measure around anything; in shipping, it’s the circumference that determines how much a package will cost to ship. Each package has three dimensions: length, width, and height. Here’s how you calculate the girth of a package:
3 Simple Steps to Measure the Girth of a Package:
| Steps | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Find the Longest Side | This is your length |
| 2. Measure Width and Height | Add these two numbers together |
| 3. Calculate Girth | Multiply the sum from step 2 by 2 |
Example:
| Dimension | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Length | 15″ |
| Width + Height | 10″ + 12″ = 22″ |
| Girth | 22″ x 2 = 44″ |
Pro Tips to Master Girth Measurement:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use Flexible Tape | A bendable measuring tape ensures accuracy, especially with curved packages. |
| Round Measurements | Round to the nearest inch for consistency with shipping guidelines. |
| Check Girth Limits | Know the limits for your chosen courier to avoid surprises. |
| Fill Empty Spaces | Use packing peanuts to create a uniform shape and reduce girth. |
Max Girth Limits for Major Couriers:
| Carrier | Max Length | Max Girth |
|---|---|---|
| Purolator | 108in | 165in |
| UPS | 108in | 165in |
| FedEx | 108in | 130in |
Common Courier Limits:
| Shipping Method | Max Weight |
|---|---|
| International Shipping | 150lbs |
| Air Shipping | 150lbs |
| Ground Shipping | 150lbs |
Avoid Hidden Charges:
Packages with a girth over 130 inches (330cm) can incur additional “special handling” charges. Most couriers won’t accept parcels with a girth over 165 inches (419cm). Understanding these limits can help you choose the right service and avoid hidden costs.
Make Shipping Easy with FlagShip
Forget about the hassle of calculating girth and finding the best rates. With FlagShip, you simply enter the correct dimensions and weight of your package, and our system does the rest! We find you the best rates for your shipment size, ensuring you save money every time.
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Why Choose FlagShip?
FlagShip is committed to making your shipping experience stress-free. By understanding redelivery options and taking proactive steps, you can minimize missed deliveries and ensure your packages arrive safely and conveniently.
Enjoy Exclusive Benefits as a FlagShip Customer:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Top Discounted Rates | Access to the best shipping rates available |
| Expert Customer Service | Highly-trained team available from 8:00am – 5:00pm EST |
| Easy Tracking Tools | Monitor and manage your shipments effortlessly |
| Reliable Support | Get help online or via phone for any shipping issues |
Cheap package shipping doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With FlagShip, you get access to reliable courier services, great shipping rates, and a user-friendly system that simplifies the entire process.
Bonus tip : FlagShip’s online shipping system makes calculating your girth easy by automating package dimensions and weight calculation for best rates. Sign up now and see how much you can save!
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If you need any assistance with the girth of a package or a shipping quote, please reach out to our team at 1-866-320-8383 or email us at sales@flagshipcompany.com
Enjoy a world of affordable shipping solutions for your business with FlagShip. Let us handle your shipping needs, so you can focus on growing your business! Follow us on Instagram for more shipping tips and support.