Parcel size and weight
Shipping prices are based on weight and dimensions: measuring them properly means paying the right amount and avoiding adjustments. The key rule is volumetric weight: if the parcel is bulky but light, you pay for the volume, not the kilos.
Volumetric weight
Carriers compare actual weight with volumetric weight and charge the higher one. The standard formula is: length × width × height (in cm) ÷ 5000. Example: a 50 × 40 × 30 cm box weighs 12 kg volumetrically — even if it contains 2 kg of cushions, you pay for 12.
How to measure correctly
A few habits prevent nasty surprises:
- ✓Measure the most protruding points, not the box walls
- ✓Round up to the centimetre and to 100 grams
- ✓Include packaging in the weight: weigh the sealed parcel, not the contents
- ✓Beyond 150-170 cm per side or girth, 'oversize' surcharges apply
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Frequently asked questions
I don't have a scale: how do I weigh the parcel?
Weigh yourself on a bathroom scale with and without the parcel: the difference is the parcel's weight. Round up.
What if I get the measurements wrong?
The carrier detects actual weight and size in transit: if they exceed the declared values, it charges the difference plus handling costs.
What is the maximum shippable size?
It depends on the service: generally up to 170-200 cm on the longest side and 30-70 kg. Beyond that you need a pallet/bulky goods service.