My cartons are different sizes; how do I write the dimensions on the packing list?
The packing list has one dimensions field for the whole shipment, free text up to 120 characters. Write the sizes compactly with a count for each, such as '2 x 40x30x30 cm, 1 x 60x40x40 cm'. Then work out volumetric weight for each size separately, because carriers charge each piece on its own dimensions.
Why one field rather than one per carton?
The Packing-list generator describes the shipment in a small table near the top of the document: number of packages, type, gross weight and dimensions. That table is a single row, so dimensions are text you write as you like. The tool does not read or calculate anything from it; it prints it as typed, or a dash if you leave it empty.
A compact format that reads quickly
Say the shipment is three cartons: two at 40 x 30 x 30 cm and one large one at 60 x 40 x 40 cm. These formats fit the field:
- Count first, then size: '2 x 40x30x30 cm, 1 x 60x40x40 cm'.
- By carton number, if the receiver matches dimensions per carton: 'C1-2: 40x30x30, C3: 60x40x40 cm'.
- Always the same order, length then width then height, and one unit for the whole shipment.
If the sizes will not fit in 120 characters, type 'See notes' in the dimensions field and put the full detail in Notes, which takes up to 1,000 characters and prints near the end of the document.
Volumetric weight: one calculation per size
Do not work out volumetric weight from an 'average' carton. We entered both sizes in the Volumetric shipping-weight calculator with a divisor of 5000, used here only as an example, so check the divisor your carrier uses:
- Two cartons at 40 x 30 x 30 cm, 6 kg each: volumetric weight 7.2 kg per carton, which applies, so 14.4 kg chargeable for the pair.
- One carton at 60 x 40 x 40 cm weighing 9 kg: volumetric weight 19.2 kg, more than twice its actual weight.
The single large carton costs more than the two small ones together. Splitting its contents into two smaller cartons might be cheaper, and you only see that if you calculate rather than just write the sizes down.
In order
- Measure each carton after sealing, not before packing, since bulging changes the size.
- Work out the volumetric weight for each size and decide whether to repack.
- Type the dimensions in the compact format, and the gross weight as the scale shows it.
- Enter 3 as the number of packages and check that the package numbers on the items match the cartons.
Common questions
Does the packing list calculate volume from the dimensions?
No, dimensions are text printed as typed. The calculation happens in the volumetric weight calculator.
Centimetres or inches?
Whatever your shipping booking uses, and state it in the text, because the tool adds no unit of its own.