How it works
The inside size is the product size times how many you place in each direction, plus the space you leave on each side. Box makers quote boxes by their inside size, so order that one.
The outside size adds the board thickness on every side. Couriers measure the outside, so use it for dimensional weight and pallet or container planning.
Frequently asked questions
Should I order boxes by inside or outside size?
Order by inside size, written as length × width × height. The maker adds the board thickness.
How much space should I leave around a product?
For sturdy items 0.5 to 1 cm is enough. For fragile items leave 3 to 5 cm on each side for bubble wrap or foam.
Which side is the length?
Length is the longer side of the opening, width the shorter side of the opening, and height is the depth from the opening to the bottom.
More box and carton tools
Master carton size for a number of boxesCarton size calculatorVolume in litres, cubic metres and cubic feetBox volume calculatorCBM for one carton and a whole shipmentCarton volume calculatorWeight of an empty corrugated boxBox weight calculatorDIM weight and the weight you'll be billedDimensional weight calculatorVolumetric weight for courier, air, sea and roadVolumetric weight calculatorSmallest box for your items and what it costs to shipShipping box calculatorBoard GSM, box weight and stacking strengthCorrugated box calculator