Choose and cushion
Use the final box, satchel or triangular tube and include every divider, corner protector and inner box.
Parcel measurements guide
How to measure and weigh a parcel correctly
Get an accurate courier quote first time. This clear UK guide shows you exactly when, where and how to measure your parcel, and why its size can matter as much as its weight.
- Measure the finished outer parcel
- Understand actual and volumetric weight
- Reduce remeasurement charges and delays
The golden rule
Measure what the courier will collect
A box, satchel or tube changes once it is filled, cushioned and sealed. Always record the final packed size and weight, including tape, labels, protective corners and any document pouch attached outside.
Before measuring
Pack and seal the parcel completely
Dimensions taken from an empty box, or a product still waiting to be wrapped, will not describe the parcel that enters the courier network.
Seal the final shape
Close every seam so any bulges, reinforced edges and protruding points are visible before measuring.
Attach external items
Include the shipping label, document pouch and customs paperwork if they add to the outside dimensions.
Why this mattersAutomated scanners and depot scales assess the finished parcel. Small differences can change which service accepts it or how it is charged.
Length × width × height
Measure every outermost point
Use a firm tape measure and work in centimetres. Do not follow the printed box size or press a soft package smaller while measuring it.
- 1
Length: measure the longest outer side.
- 2
Width: measure the next side at its widest point.
- 3
Height: measure from the base to the highest point.
- 4
Round up: take every dimension to the next whole centimetre.
Actual packed weight
Weigh the whole parcel, not just the contents
Choose scales suited to the parcel’s likely weight and place the package centrally so nothing else supports it.
Include everything: box, cushioning, tape, labels and document pouches.
Let the reading settle: make sure the parcel is not touching a wall or the floor.
Use suitable scales: parcel or kitchen scales for lighter items; luggage or platform scales for larger ones.
Never estimate: round up rather than down when a service requires set weight increments.
Sending more than one parcel?Measure and weigh each piece separately, even when every box is travelling to the same address.
Size has weight too
Understand actual, volumetric and chargeable weight
A large lightweight parcel takes up more vehicle and depot space than its scales reading suggests. Couriers account for that space using volumetric, also called dimensional, weight.
Actual weight
The physical weight shown on your scales after the parcel has been completely packed.
Volumetric weight
A calculated weight based on the parcel’s external length, width and height.
Chargeable weight
The higher of the actual and volumetric weights may be used to calculate the price.
Worked example
50 × 40 × 30 ÷ 5,000 = 12kg
Many parcel services use a divisor of 5,000, although it can vary by courier and service.
- Actual weight: 8kg
- Volumetric weight: 12kg
- Chargeable weight may be 12kg
You do not need to calculate this before quoting. Enter the accurate packed weight and dimensions and Interparcel will show the services available for your parcel.
Thirty-second check
Check the figures, then request your quote
- 1
The parcel is completely packed, sealed and labelled.
- 2
Length is the longest outer side.
- 3
Every bulge, handle, pouch and protruding point is included.
- 4
Dimensions are in centimetres and have not been rounded down.
- 5
Weight includes all packaging and has been recorded in kilograms.
- 6
Each parcel in a multi-piece shipment has its own figures.
Ready to compare?
Put your measurements to work
Enter the finished weight and dimensions to compare suitable UK and international parcel delivery services.
- Compare trusted courier options in one place
- See collection and drop-off services
- Choose by price, speed and convenience
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Still unsure?
Ask our UK delivery experts
Our customer service team can help if your parcel is unusually shaped, close to a service limit or difficult to weigh.
Measurement questions
Frequently asked questions
Should I measure my item before or after packing it?
Always measure and weigh the parcel after it has been completely packed, cushioned, sealed and labelled. Couriers assess the finished outer package, not the unwrapped item inside it.
Which side of a parcel is the length?
The length is the longest outer side of the finished parcel. The other two sides are the width and height. The parcel can be turned in any direction; the longest measurement remains the length.
Should I round parcel measurements up or down?
Never round down. Measure the outermost points and round each dimension up to the next whole centimetre. For weight, use the exact packed reading and round up if the booking form or selected service requires a particular increment.
What is volumetric weight?
Volumetric or dimensional weight represents the amount of space a parcel occupies compared with its physical weight. A courier may charge using whichever is greater: the parcel’s actual packed weight or its volumetric weight.
How do I measure an irregularly shaped parcel or satchel?
Measure between the furthest outer points as though the item were enclosed by the smallest rectangular box that would contain it. For a flexible satchel, let it settle naturally and measure its maximum packed length, width and height without squeezing it smaller.
Can I combine the weight and dimensions of several parcels?
No. Measure and weigh every parcel separately, even when they are travelling to the same address. Add each piece individually to the quote so the correct service limits and chargeable weight can be checked.
Can I use bathroom scales to weigh a parcel?
Bathroom scales may be suitable for a large, heavy parcel if their increments are precise enough, but they can be inaccurate for lighter packages. Digital parcel, kitchen, luggage or platform scales are usually better, provided the parcel is within their capacity and sits clear of the floor or surrounding objects.
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