Got a question about the weight, dimensions or packaging of your DHL parcel? Here are our FAQs to help you find the answer to your question. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, get in touch with our teamfor further assistance.
Can I estimate the weight or dimensions of my parcel? Please be as accurate as possible when weighing and measuring your parcel. If this information is not accurate it could result in extra charges or your parcel being returned.
We recommend you use kitchen/bathroom scales to weigh your parcel and a tape measure or ruler to measure the dimensions. See our weighing and measuring advice for more information.
Please specify the weight in kilograms (kg) and dimensions in centimetres (cm).
Please note that we automatically reweigh and measure parcels at our Service Centres before they are dispatched.
What are the parcel size and weight limits? Our parcel size and weight limits depend on the service you choose.
To send a parcel from a DHL Service Point, your items must fit into one of our free DHL envelopes or boxes. Our largest box size is 48 x 40 x 39cm, with a maximum recommended weight of 25kg. Find out more in our size and price guide.
If you choose to book a collection with DHLitNow or DHL by phone, the maximum weight per parcel is 70kg and the maximum dimensions per parcel are 120 x 80 x 80cm.
See our weight and size comparison guide for more information.
Need to send a larger or heavier parcel?
We will be happy to quote for parcels up to 300kg with a maximum length of 300cm. Contact our Customer Service team for more information.
How do I calculate the dimensions of a parcel? When you send a parcel with DHLitNow or DHL by Phone, you must calculate the dimensions of your parcel at home.
The dimensions of a parcel are always length (L), height (H) and width (W). We will need accurate measurements to calculate the cost of sending your parcel.
The length (L) of the parcel is always the longest side of the parcel you are sending, and the width and height are the other two measurements of the parcel.
How do I measure the volumetric weight of a parcel?
If your parcel is large in size and light in weight, the delivery price may be calculated by the parcel's volumetric weight rather than its actual weight. Find out how to calculate volumetric weight.
How do I calculate the dimensions of an irregularly shaped parcel?
If your parcel is not a box-like shape, it can be difficult to work out what dimensions you need to input or say when using a DHL service to send a parcel.
When calculating these dimensions, always measure the largest parts of the item. The length is the longest part of the parcel, and the width and height should be measured between the parcel’s widest points.
Can I send a parcel that weighs more than 70kg? Yes, you can.
If you have a parcel weighing more than 70kg or with dimensions over 120 x 80 x 80cm, please contact our Customer Service team for a quote.
Can I use my own packaging with DHL? We can accept parcels in your own packaging at DHL Service Points located in DHL Express Service Centres.
You can also use free envelopes and boxes at our DHL Service Points. This means there is no need to weigh or measure your DHL parcel in store.
If your parcel doesn't fit into one of our boxes, you may wish to consider one of our other parcel services:
DHLitNow
You can book your parcel delivery online using our DHLitNow shipping application. The maximum parcel weight is 70kg and the maximum parcel size is 120 x 80 x 80cm.
DHL by phone
Call a member of our team to book a parcel collection over the phone.The maximum parcel weight is 70kg and the maximum parcel size is 120 x 80 x 80cm.
If you have a heavier or larger item to send, our Customer Service team will be happy to provide you with a quote.
What packaging should I use for my parcel? DHL is committed to delivering your parcels with speed and care. However, parcels should be packed to withstand the normal rigours of road and aircraft handling and transportation.
Packing your parcels with proper materials and care help ensure your shipments arrive safely and intact. To help ensure your parcel arrives safely, you should:
- Assess what you’re trying to send – consider the weight, cost, regulations and fragility of the contents
- Choose your packaging based on its material, strength and size
- Pack your goods correctly, leaving no empty space in the box, placing items in the centre of the box and wrapping items individually
- Seal your parcel correctly using the right tape and ensuring all the seams are sealed
- Display your labels clearly and include a spare label insde the package
Please see our packaging advice for more hints and tips.
Please note: DHL accepts no liability for the packaging advice it provides. The customer remains responsible for ensuring packaging is adequate for transportation.
If you’d like to find out more about calculating the weight and dimensions or how to package your DHL parcel, get in touch with our team today.
Still have a question?
Perhaps one of these will help
FAQs
The Postal Service™ maximum mailpiece weight limit is 70 pounds and the maximum dimension (length plus girth) is 130 inches.
Does the weight on a package include the packaging? ›
Net weight is a measurement that refers to the total weight of the goods being shipped or the contents of a package, without including the weight of any packaging or containers. In other words, only the weight the product itself, stripped of all external factors that might contribute to its mass.
Does package size or weight matter? ›
Dimensional weight is based on the dimensions of the package (length, width, height) instead of the actual weight. Depending on the carrier, you are charged either on the dimensional weight of the package or the actual weight of the package—whichever is higher.
Does package weight have to be exact? ›
In addition, many service types use the package weight to calculate the postage weight. As such, it's important to enter accurate weights for each shipment. Weights are measured in pounds (lbs) and ounces (oz). It is best to measure your package weight using a postage scale.
What is the maximum weight and size requirements for a package? ›
The maximum size for most mailpieces is 108 inches in combined length and girth. USPS Retail Ground pieces may measure up to 130 inches in combined length and girth (but will be charged oversized prices). Regardless of the size of the mailpiece, the maximum mailable weight of any mailpiece is 70 pounds.
What happens if your package weighs more than the label? ›
If your parcel weight is more than what is stated on the shipping label, most courier companies will issue a surcharge for the overweight package or send it back to the pick-up address.
Does unit weight include packaging? ›
Unit weight is the measure of how much your product weighs packaged.
Does USPS go by weight or box size? ›
For First-Class Mail, shape and weight will determine the price. For Priority Mail, the price is a combination of weight, size, and how far the mailpiece is traveling. Priority Mail pieces that exceed one cubic foot, are subject to "dimensional weight pricing".
Do packages have to be a certain size? ›
At least 3 inches high x 6 inches long x 1/4 inch thick. Except for USPS Retail Ground and Parcel Select, no mailpiece may measure more than 108 inches in length and girth combined. Length is the measurement of the longest dimension and girth is the distance around the thickest part (perpendicular to the length).
How to determine the weight of a package? ›
To calculate dimensional (DIM) weight, multiply the length, width, and height of a package, using the longest point on each side. Then, divide the cubic size of the package in inches by the DIM divisor to calculate the dimensional weight in pounds.
Unexpected weight problems put your cargo at greater risk of damage and destruction along the way. It can also delay shipments if the cargo is reweighed along the route and found to be mismatched to what is declared. You may also risk extra fees and accessorial charges if not protected by the right liability.
Should you round up or down a package size? ›
Round up (e.g., rounding up either 44.2 or 44.8 to the next whole pound is 45).
What happens if I put the wrong weight on a shipping label UPS? ›
The UPS incorrect weight shipping charge applies when the weight of a package is different than what you indicated at the time of shipping. UPS recommends rounding up to the next full pound when weighing your packages to avoid being charged for an incorrect weight.
What happens if you overweight a package? ›
Overweight items will be assessed an overweight item charge payable before release of the item, unless it is discovered at the same facility it was entered. Postage and fees refunds are not available.
Can you mail packages wrapped in brown paper? ›
Paper wrapping is not recommended; it can catch and tear off in mail processing equipment. Parcels (including fragile items) should be prepared to withstand normal mail processing and transportation. Contents can be padded with newspaper, Styrofoam, bubble wrap, tissue and ink-free packing paper.
What is acceptable packaging for USPS? ›
Whether you're using a box, padded envelope, or tube, use packaging that doesn't bulge and is strong enough to protect what you're sending. And accurately measure the size and weight of your package so you can avoid unexpected fees.
How do you calculate the weight of a package? ›
To calculate dimensional (DIM) weight, multiply the length, width, and height of a package, using the longest point on each side. Then, divide the cubic size of the package in inches by the DIM divisor to calculate the dimensional weight in pounds.
What does shipping weight include? ›
Shipping Weight is the weight of a package or shipment, including the weight of the packaging materials. The shipping weight is used to calculate the shipping cost and is usually measured in pounds or kilograms.
How do I know the weight of my package? ›
Measure length, width and height of the theoretical package from its extreme points to determine the package's dimensions. How do I determine the actual weight of my package? The actual weight is the package weight rounded up to the next whole pound. Use a scale to determine the weight of the package.
Does USPS count the weight of the box? ›
Dimensional Weight Price for Low-Density Parcels to Zones 1-9 - For the domestic mail classes listed below, postage for parcels addressed for delivery to Zones 1-9 and that exceed one cubic foot (1,728 cubic inches) is based on either the actual weight or the calculated dimensional weight, whichever is greater.
