How to Measure Different Types of Boxes
Getting your box measurements right from very beginning is one of most important steps in custom packaging process. Wrong dimensions mean wasted money, damaged products and delays that nobody wants. Whether you are ordering folding cartons, mailer boxes, shipping boxes or rigid boxes this guide will walk you through exactly how to measure each one correctly!
Understanding Basic Box Dimensions
Before we get into specific box types there is one universal rule you need to know. All box dimensions are always measured and written in same order which is Length x Width x Height (L x W x H). Length is always longest side of opening, Width is shorter side of opening and Height is how tall box is from bottom to top. Getting these three measurements right for your specific product is everything. Always measure your actual product first and then add necessary clearance space on all sides before finalizing your box dimensions.
How to Measure Folding Cartons
Folding cartons are most common type of retail packaging and they come in many different styles like Reverse Tuck End, Straight Tuck End and Auto Bottom. For all of these measurement method is same.
First lay your product flat and measure its length, width and height using a ruler or measuring tape. Then add at least 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch on each dimension to give product enough room to slide in and out comfortably without being too loose inside box. Too tight and product gets damaged or difficult to pack. Too loose and product rattles around and looks unprofessional when customer opens it.
For folding cartons that will hold multiple items or have inserts inside make sure to account for insert thickness as well when calculating your internal dimensions. Always specify internal dimensions when ordering folding cartons because that is what actually matters for
How to Measure Mailer Boxes
Mailer boxes are two piece structures where lid folds down over base and they are very popular for e-commerce brands. Measuring a mailer box is slightly different because you need to think about both internal dimensions for product fit and external dimensions for shipping label placement and carrier size restrictions. Measure your product or group of products that will go inside and add at least 1/2 inch on length and width for comfortable packing clearance. For height add 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch above product height so lid closes properly without bulging. If you are using inner inserts or tissue paper inside mailer box add that thickness to your height calculation as well. Keep in mind that most major carriers like FedEx and UPS have dimensional weight calculations that affect shipping cost so keeping external dimensions as compact as possible saves money on every single shipment.
How to Measure Shipping Boxes
Shipping boxes or corrugated boxes need a bit more clearance then folding cartons because they are designed to protect products through rough freight handling and stacking. For shipping boxes we recommend adding at least 2 to 3 inches on all three dimensions to account for cushioning material like bubble wrap, foam or packing peanuts that go around your product inside box. So if your product measures 8 x 6 x 4 inches your shipping box should be roughly 11 x 9 x 7 inches to allow proper cushioning on all sides. Never pack a product tightly inside a shipping box with no cushioning room because box will not absorb impact properly and product damage rates go up significantly. For heavy products also consider board thickness and flute type of corrugated material to make sure box has enough strength for weight it is carrying.
How to Measure Rigid Boxes
Rigid boxes are two piece structures with separate lid and base and they require most careful measuring of all box types. Because rigid boxes are made from thick Greyboard the board thickness itself adds to external dimensions so you need to specify clearly whether your measurements are internal or external. When measuring for rigid box always measure internal dimensions of base first based on your product size with about 1/8 inch clearance on all sides. Lid dimensions are then calculated to fit snugly over base with right amount of overlap on sides. Our team handles all these calculations for you when you submit your product dimensions so you do not need to worry about board thickness adjustments yourself.
Final Tips for Getting Measurements Right
Always measure your actual product not just go by listed product dimensions. Products with irregular shapes, protruding caps, handles or accessories need special attention. When in doubt add a little extra clearance rather then going too tight. And if you are ever unsure about anything just send us your product measurements and our team will figure out right box dimensions for you completely free of charge!