Large Shipping Boxes - What you Need to Know!

The question is often asked, if we have multiple items to be despatched, is it cheaper to send the goods out in one large shipping box or several smaller boxes?  In this blog we will look at the pros and cons for both options. Although it isn’t clear cut we will try to reach a conclusion as to which is the cheapest way to ship goods.

What do Couriers Say?

When it comes to shipping large boxes, couriers have different definitions of what they would class as a ‘Large Box’. Carriers such as UPS & Fedex have strict size and weight restrictions and so shipping large, heavy items can become very expensive. However, there are some businesses that have to send goods out in large shipping boxes as opposed to small boxes. This can include meat and fish suppliers, plastic pellet manufacturers and cushion and bed makers. Furniture manufacturers also send out large heavy boxes and often have their own modes of transport for distributing their goods. Therefore, it is important that you know what your couriers large box policies are. And shop around to find the best and cheapest shipping costs for your requirements.

Homeowners often have the need to ship items in large outer boxes. This includes such things as sofas, chairs, beds, and other items of furniture if they are looking to move house. Also, sellers on sites such as eBay may have the need for large shipping boxes to send out items. One thing that is very important is that they accurately measure the size of the box before shipping. If the box isn’t measured correctly, and the dimensions fall outside of the couriers’ restrictions’, it can result in costly surcharges.

Some couriers have online calculators. This is handy if you are looking to ship large boxes. Simply add your external box dimensions and product weight to enable yourself to get a shipping cost for your goods.

Package Consolidation

Package consolidation is a very cost-effective way to ship goods. This is basically shipping multiple items from one order in the same box. For example, if a customer was to order three small, lightweight items that needed to be shipped across the country, it would be cheaper to send them all in the same box. Also, if items are shipped in one consignment, it is easier for the customer to keep track on their order. It will also mean that all the items will arrive together rather than on separate days. However, if the items are heavy, bulky, or fragile, this may not be a viable option.

The Argument for Individual Boxes

If you have a large amount of goods to send it may be cheaper to send in individual boxes. This is because you could stack them on a pallet and then get a flat rate delivery cost per pallet of boxes. It will also mean that the goods can be sent out in individual boxes, but they will again arrive at their destination safely and all at the same time.