What Are the Package Size Limits for Different Carriers?

Written by UPrinting    ●    Updated on December 26, 2024

Understanding package size limits is essential for businesses looking to optimize shipping costs and delivery times. Different carriers such as FedEx, UPS, and USPS have varying restrictions on package size and weight, which can significantly affect your shipping choices. This guide will help entrepreneurs, small business owners, and DIY enthusiasts navigate these package size limits to ensure efficient and cost-effective shipping.

FedEx Package Size Limits

FedEx offers a variety of services, each with different package size and weight limits. Whether you're shipping domestically or internationally, it's important to know the exact specifications to avoid additional charges or delays.

FedEx Express (U.S. services):

• ●   Maximum weight: 150 lb
• ●   Maximum length: 119”
• ●   Maximum length + girth: 165”

FedEx Express (International services):

• ●   Maximum weight: 150 lb
• ●   Maximum length: 108”
• ●   Maximum length + girth: 130”

FedEx Freight Services:

• ●   Maximum weight: 20,000 lb
• ●   Maximum length: 21'
• ●   Specific skids, or single deck pallet, exceeding 2,200 lb or dimensions over 70" in height, 119" in length, or 80" in width require prior approval.

FedEx Ground and Home Delivery:

• ●   Maximum weight: 150 lb
• ●   Maximum length: 108”
• ●   Maximum length + girth: 165”
• ●   Dimensional Weight: FedEx also applies dimensional weight when the package is light for its size. To calculate dimensional weight, multiply length, width, and height in inches, then divide by 139. The greater of the actual or dimensional weight will be used for billing.

UPS Package Size Limits

UPS has clear size and weight limits for its services, which vary depending on the shipping option. It's important to check these limits to ensure your package qualifies for standard shipping and avoid any unexpected fees.

General UPS Limits:

• ●   Maximum weight: 150 lb
• ●   Maximum length: 108"

Freight Shipping:

• ●   Larger packages exceeding the size and weight limits of standard services may need to be shipped via UPS Freight.
• ●   Package Girth: UPS uses a girth calculation of length + 2x (width + height), and packages exceeding 130” in girth will incur a surcharge or need to be freight-shipped.

USPS Package Size Limits

USPS is a widely used shipping provider, especially for smaller businesses and domestic shipments. Understanding its size and weight restrictions can help you avoid additional costs and ensure timely delivery.

Maximum Size:

• ●   Domestic parcels: Maximum combined length and girth of 108"
• ●   USPS Ground Advantage: Up to 130” in length + girth combined (items between 108” and 130” are subject to oversized charges)
• ●   International shipments: Varies by destination, checked through the Postage Calculator

Maximum Weight:

• ●   Domestic shipments: Up to 70 lb
• ●   International shipments: Varies by destination, also checked through the Postage Calculator
• ●   Oversize Charge: Items exceeding the maximum size will incur oversize charges and may not be mailable. An overweight charge applies for items over 70 lb, and these will also require additional postage or be deemed non-mailable.
• ●   Dimensional Weight: USPS may apply dimensional weight for larger parcels, particularly for international shipments, where the volume weight can surpass the actual weight.

Other Carriers’ Size Limits

While FedEx, UPS, and USPS are the most common carriers, other shipping providers like DHL and regional couriers have their own size and weight limits that could be more suitable for specific shipping needs.

DHL:

• ●   Maximum weight: 150 lb
• ●   Maximum length: 118"
• ●   Maximum length + girth: 130"

Canada Post:

• ●   Maximum weight: 150 lb
• ●   Maximum length: 79"
• ●   Maximum length + girth: 130"

Knowing the package size limits for different carriers helps you avoid unexpected fees and delays. By choosing the right carrier and packaging efficiently, you can streamline your shipping process and reduce costs. Always check the latest guidelines to stay updated on size restrictions and ensure smooth deliveries for your business.