Guide to UPS Boxes: Sizes, Cost and Types | Easyship Blog (2024)

Key Points:

• UPS Letter, UPS Express Tube, UPS PAK, and UPS Express Box are some of the most popular UPS shipping boxes
• Free UPS boxes aren't a part of the Digital Access Program (DAP) but are available through UPS directly
• Easyship offers users discounted shipping rates, so eCommerce merchants like yourself can save some extra cash

When it comes to choosing the right UPS boxes to ship their items, some retailers face quite the dilemma. It’s important that online shoppers receive their packages in good condition, and to ensure this, items must be packed appropriately in a well-sized box.

The key to nailing this is right here in this article. We’ll break down the various sizes of boxes offered by UPS and help you decide which ones work for you and your products.

UPS Package Types

Many online merchants don’t know this, but there are many different boxes available for shipping, and each one is meant for a different purpose.

From UPS packaging boxes to shipping and moving boxes, you need to understand what’s available to be able to pick the right one:

• UPS Letter: For urgent document delivery.
• UPS 10kg Box: International delivery via UPS Worldwide Express.
• UPS 25kg Box: Flat-rate international delivery with UPS Worldwide Express.
• UPS Express Box: Available in three different sizes; very versatile; used mostly to ship with UPS 2nd Day Air, UPS Next Day Air, and other international services.
• UPS Express Tube: Designed for documents like charts, blueprints, drawings, posters, and maps.
• UPS World Ease Document Box: Ideal for packing and shipping documents.
• UPS Pallet: For cargo secured to shipping pallets.
• UPS PAK: Watertight boxes for shipping regulated or sensitive items.

What Size Are UPS Boxes?

Now that you know what UPS Store® box sizes are available, you’ll need to know critical details like weight limits, minimum order quantities, and what services they can be used with. And, if you need help, UPS has a box size calculator on a handy app!

UPS Letter

• Size: 12.5” x 9.5”
• Weight limit: 0.5lbs
• Minimum order quantity: 25 envelopes
• Varying order increments between 25-250 pieces

UPS 10kg Box

• Size: 16” x 13” x 10”
• Weight limit: 10kgs
• Minimum order quantity: 2 boxes
• Varying order increments per 5 boxes

UPS 25kg Box

• Size: 19” x 17” x 14”
• Weight limit: 25 kgs
• Minimum order quantity: 2 boxes
• Varying order increments per 5 boxes

UPS Express Box

• Large: 18” x 13” x 3” and can take up the weight of up to 30 lbs
• Medium: 15” x 11” x 3”
• Small: 13” x 11” x 2”
• Minimum order quantity: 20 boxes
• Varying order increments between 40-100 pieces

UPS Express Tube

• Size: 38” x 6” x 6”
• Minimum order quantity: 5 tubes
• Varying order increments above 40 pieces.

UPS World Ease Document Box

• Size: 17.” x 12.5” x 3”
• Minimum order quantity: 20 boxes
• Order increments: per case

UPS Pallet Boxes

• Large Size: 16.5” x 13.25” x 10.75” with a weight limit of 22 lbs (10kg)
• Small Size: 19.75” x 17.75” x 13.25” with a weight limit of 55 lbs (25kg)

UPS PAK

• Various sizes and weight restrictions.

How to Decide Which Box Will Suit Your Needs

You should consider certain things before you opt for a particular box from the UPS package types. Some of these include:

• The weight of the item being shipped
• The size limits of the different boxes
• The particular service being used
• The type of item being shipped

Generally, you want to leave a couple of inches of space between the item and the box so you can use cushioning materials to secure your package.

What Are the Weight and Size Limits of UPS Boxes?

Just like any courier, there are weight and size limits you have to adhere to when sending items. UPS has come up with the following guidelines when shipping packages domestically or internationally:

• Packages can be up to 150 pounds
• Packages can be up to 165 inches (length and girth combined)
• Packages can be up to 108 inches in length (the longest side)

*For any questions regarding size limitations, contact Easyship for your questions or concerns.

Where to Get UPS Boxes

When you’re shipping items through UPS, you’ll need to get the right boxes. Luckily, the courier makes it quite easy for customers to get UPS packaging. You can find UPS boxes for sale:

• At your nearest UPS location
• From accredited logistics companies
• Online through the UPS website

Pick the Right Box For Your Shipment

Your UPS packing boxes will play a significant role in the condition that your customers receive their goods. That’s why it’s important that you choose a box of the appropriate size. Now that you know what UPS box sizes are offered, you’ll be able to find the right one for you. But, don't forget to calculate the cost of shipping!

Easyship can connect you with a wide range of shipping services, and you can even connect your UPS account to your Easyship account to use your pre-negotiated rates.

You'll also gain access to benefits like avoiding additional surcharges, no minimum shipping volume, real-time UPS tracking and delivery alerts, and more.

Sign up for an Easyship account today and gain access to over 550+ courier solutions.

UPS Box Sizes FAQ

Are boxes free at UPS?

Yes, UPS provides merchants with free boxes for most shipments. You can order free UPS boxes online at UPS.com.

Do UPS stores sell boxes?

Yes, you can purchase boxes at UPS Store® locations.

Will UPS box my item?

Yes, UPS will box and package your item for you for free in most cases. There may be an added packaging fee for specialty or large shipments.

Does UPS provide free boxes for Amazon returns?

Yes, you can order free UPS boxes online from UPS.com in packs of 10 or 25. They will be delivered to you and you can use them however you like.

If you found this article valuable, you might want to check out the following:

• The Guide to USPS Shipping Boxes
• USPS vs UPS vs FedEx: Who Has Better Rates
• FedEx Boxes: How to Choose the Right One for Your Shipment