Reusing a box avoids making a new oneFree, no-obligation quote requestsUsed boxes and gaylords through partner suppliersFlatten and stack cardboard to save floor spaceKeep boxes dry so they can be reusedServing Portland, Oregon and the metro areaReusing a box avoids making a new oneFree, no-obligation quote requestsUsed boxes and gaylords through partner suppliersFlatten and stack cardboard to save floor spaceKeep boxes dry so they can be reusedServing Portland, Oregon and the metro area
Portland Boxes
Size Guide

Complete Box Size Reference Guide

Box sizes, strength ratings, flute types, and how to choose the right packaging for your products, with quote requests available for Portland, Oregon and the metro area.

Get a Free Quote

Free, no-obligation quote request

Standard Corrugated Box Sizes

Commonly used box dimensions. All sizes are listed as Length x Width x Height in inches. Ask the supplier for rated capacity, since it depends on the board and on the condition of the box.

Size (L x W x H)Common Uses
4 x 4 x 4Small parts, samples, jewelry
5 x 5 x 5Cosmetics, supplements, USB drives
6 x 6 x 6Candles, jars, small gifts
8 x 6 x 4Books, DVDs, flat items
8 x 8 x 8Mugs, small electronics, craft supplies
10 x 8 x 6Retail products, electronics accessories
10 x 10 x 10Flower pots, table lamps, toys
12 x 10 x 8Shoes, clothing bundles, kitchenware
12 x 12 x 12General purpose, medium items
14 x 10 x 10Wine bottles (2-pack), taller goods
14 x 14 x 14Small appliances, bulk clothing
16 x 12 x 8Laptops, flat-screen monitors under 17 in
16 x 12 x 12Tall items, bottles, decorative items
16 x 16 x 16Helmets, medium appliances, houseware sets
18 x 14 x 12Kitchen appliances, office supplies
18 x 18 x 16Medium appliances, bulk storage
20 x 14 x 10Printers, document boxes, monitors
20 x 20 x 20Large items, multiple products
22 x 16 x 14Computer towers, large kitchen gadgets
24 x 18 x 18Linens, pillows, bulky soft goods
24 x 24 x 24Moving, large storage, equipment
28 x 20 x 16Sports equipment, bulky irregulars
30 x 24 x 24Large equipment, oversized items
36 x 24 x 24Furniture, artwork, industrial parts
40 x 30 x 20Flat-pack furniture, signage, panels
48 x 24 x 24Long items, lumber, pipe
48 x 40 x 36Palletized freight, machinery covers
60 x 30 x 30Mattresses (compressed), large fixtures

Specialty Box Sizes

Purpose-built boxes designed for specific items. These specialty shapes protect awkward, fragile, or oversized products that standard RSC boxes cannot safely accommodate.

1

Wardrobe Box

24 x 21 x 46

Hanging clothes, coats, formal wear. Often includes a bar for hangers.

Common for residential and commercial moving.

2

Dish Pack / Barrel

18 x 18 x 28

Fragile dishware, glassware, ceramics. Usually double wall construction.

Check the box certificate for the rating.

3

Picture / Mirror Box

30 x 5 x 40 (adjustable)

Framed art, mirrors, flat-screen TVs, glass tabletops.

Telescoping designs adjust to the item.

4

Telescoping Box (Outer)

Variable, fits over inner

Adjustable-length protection for irregularly shaped items.

Two-piece design slides to the length needed.

5

Lamp Box

12 x 12 x 40

Table lamps, floor lamp bases, tall vases, trophies.

Tall and narrow for upright fragile items.

6

File / Storage Box

15 x 12 x 10

Legal and letter-sized hanging files, documents, archives.

Often has handles and a stackable design.

7

Wine Shipper (12-bottle)

19 x 13 x 16

Wine, spirits, craft beverages with divider insert.

Needs dividers for safe transit. Check current carrier rules for alcohol.

8

Guitar Box

18 x 6 x 45

Acoustic and electric guitars, bass guitars, long instruments.

Needs interior padding; double-wall recommended.

9

Golf Club Box

13 x 13 x 50

Golf club sets, fishing rods, ski poles.

Extra-tall single-piece for long narrow items.

10

Bicycle Box

54 x 8 x 28

Partially disassembled bicycles, scooters, large frames.

Oversized flat design. Check dimensional weight before shipping.

Gaylord Box Sizes

Bulk containers designed for pallet-based storage and shipping. Dimensions in inches. Ask the supplier for rated capacity, and remember that a used gaylord may no longer meet its original rating.

SizeWallPalletBest For
40 x 30 x 30SingleSmaller footprintLight bulk storage
48 x 40 x 24Single48 x 40Low-profile bulk items
48 x 40 x 36Single48 x 40General bulk storage
48 x 40 x 36Double48 x 40Heavier bulk items
48 x 40 x 48Double48 x 40Tall bulk items
48 x 40 x 36Triple48 x 40Heavy industrial
48 x 40 x 48Triple48 x 40Tall, heavy-duty
48 x 48 x 48Triple48 x 48Oversized industrial

Box Strength Ratings (ECT)

The Edge Crush Test measures how much force corrugated board takes on its edge. Higher ECT generally means better stacking performance. Heavier double wall and triple wall boards carry higher ratings, which vary by maker, so read the certificate and ask the supplier for rated capacity.

32
ECT
32 ECT(200# burst)

Common single wall rating. The usual starting point for e-commerce and retail shipping of lighter items.

44
ECT
44 ECT(275# burst)

A step up in strength, used in heavy single wall and lighter double wall boxes. Check the certificate to see which you are getting.

48
ECT
48 ECT(275# burst)

Common double wall rating. Used for heavier contents and more serious stacking.

How to Measure a Box

Box dimensions are always listed in the order: Length x Width x Height. Understanding the difference between inner and outer dimensions is critical for proper fit.

Inner Dimensions (ID)

Measured from the inside of the box. Use inner dimensions when sizing a box for a specific product. This is the usable space.

Tip: Always allow 1-2 inches of clearance for cushioning material.

Outer Dimensions (OD)

Measured from the outside of the box. Use outer dimensions for calculating shipping costs, pallet configurations, and storage space.

Note: Outer dimensions are a little larger than inner dimensions, depending on wall thickness.

Measuring Steps

  1. Length: The longest side of the box opening (top). Measure the longest horizontal edge.
  2. Width: The shorter side of the box opening (top). Measure the shorter horizontal edge.
  3. Height (Depth): The distance from the top opening to the bottom. Measure vertically from base to flap fold.

How to Calculate Dimensional Weight

Parcel carriers commonly charge on the greater of actual weight or dimensional (DIM) weight. Understanding DIM weight helps you choose boxes that keep shipping costs down.

The DIM Weight Formula

DIM Weight = (Length x Width x Height) / DIM Factor

All measurements are in inches. The DIM factor is set by each carrier and service, and it changes, so check current carrier rules:

Step 1
Measure
Outer length, width, and height
Step 2
Multiply
L x W x H gives cubic inches
Step 3
Divide
By the current factor from your carrier

Box Volume Examples

Small E-Commerce Box (12 x 10 x 8)960 cubic inches

12 x 10 x 8 = 960 cubic inches. Divide by your carrier factor and compare the result with the actual weight of the package.

Medium Box (18 x 14 x 12)3,024 cubic inches

18 x 14 x 12 = 3,024 cubic inches. A light item in a box this size may be billed on its dimensions rather than its actual weight.

Large Moving Box (24 x 24 x 24)13,824 cubic inches

24 x 24 x 24 = 13,824 cubic inches. This shows how quickly volume grows with size, and why oversized boxes can bring large DIM weight charges even for light items.

Tips for Reducing DIM Weight Charges

  • Right-size your boxes. Using the smallest box that safely fits your product with cushioning is a direct way to reduce DIM charges.
  • Use variable-height boxes or score-and-fold techniques to reduce box height after packing.
  • Consider poly mailers or padded envelopes for soft, non-fragile items.
  • Consolidate multi-item orders into fewer, appropriately sized boxes rather than shipping items individually.
  • Ask your carrier whether your account qualifies for a different DIM factor.

Flute Types Explained

The flute is the wavy layer inside corrugated board. Different flute profiles provide different properties.

FluteThicknessFlutes/ftDescription
A-Flute5mm (3/16")33/ftTallest common flute. Good cushioning and stacking strength.
B-Flute3mm (1/8")47/ftFine flute with a good printing surface. Often used for retail packaging and die-cut boxes.
C-Flute4mm (5/32")39/ftVery common for shipping boxes. A balance of cushioning, strength, and printability.
E-Flute1.5mm (1/16")90/ftMicro-flute with a thin profile and clean printing. Used for mailer boxes and retail displays.
F-Flute0.8mm (1/32")125/ftThinner still. Used for small retail packaging where a slim wall matters.
BC-Flute6.5mmDoubleDouble wall (B + C). Combines the B-flute printing surface with C-flute cushioning. Common for heavy-duty boxes.

Box Size by Industry

Different industries have different packaging requirements. Here are the most commonly requested box sizes for each major sector, along with selection tips specific to that industry.

E-Commerce & Retail

Online retailers need a range of sizes to match diverse product catalogs while minimizing DIM weight charges. Poly mailers work for soft goods; corrugated is essential for anything fragile.

6 x 6 x 6: Small accessories, cosmetics, phone cases
10 x 8 x 6: Books, electronics accessories, supplements
12 x 12 x 12: General merchandise, subscription boxes
16 x 12 x 8: Laptops, tablet bundles, small appliances
18 x 14 x 12: Multi-item orders, gift sets
24 x 18 x 18: Bulk clothing packs, large product bundles

Food & Beverage

Packaging around food takes more care. Used boxes are generally a fit for outer shipping of sealed goods, not direct food contact. Rules vary by product, so check current regulations before you choose.

10 x 10 x 10: Meal kits, small produce boxes, gift baskets
12 x 12 x 12: Bakery items, coffee bean bags, spice sets
14 x 10 x 10: Wine 2-pack, bottled sauce multipacks
19 x 13 x 16: Wine 12-bottle shipper with dividers
24 x 18 x 18: Bulk dry goods, snack packs, canned goods cases
48 x 40 x 36 (Gaylord): Storage of sealed, packaged goods

Manufacturing & Industrial

Industrial settings prioritize stacking strength and bulk capacity. Double- and triple-wall boxes protect heavy parts. Gaylords are the backbone of parts storage and inter-facility transport.

16 x 12 x 12: Fasteners, small machined parts, tools
20 x 14 x 10: Instrument panels, control units, motor parts
24 x 24 x 24: Heavy equipment components, pump housings
36 x 24 x 24: Large fabricated parts, sheet metal forms
48 x 24 x 24: Pipe, extrusions, structural members
48 x 40 x 48 (Gaylord, triple wall): Bulk scrap, heavy raw materials

Moving & Relocation

Movers benefit from a standard set of sizes that stack evenly in the truck. Specialty boxes for wardrobes, dishes, and pictures help protect items that are easily damaged.

16 x 12 x 12 (Small/Book Box): Books, records, canned goods
18 x 18 x 16 (Medium): Kitchen items, toys, general household
24 x 18 x 18 (Large): Linens, pillows, lampshades, towels
24 x 24 x 24 (Extra Large): Comforters, large toys, sports gear
24 x 21 x 46 (Wardrobe): Hanging clothing with metal bar
18 x 18 x 28 (Dish Pack): Fragile dishware with cell dividers

Box Terminology Glossary

RSC:Regular Slotted Container. The most common box style. All flaps are the same length and the outer flaps meet at the center.
FOL:Full Overlap. Similar to an RSC, but the outer flaps extend the full width of the box and overlap completely for extra strength.
HSC:Half Slotted Container. Like an RSC but with flaps on only one end. Used as trays or when top access is needed.
OPF:One-Piece Folder. A flat sheet scored and folded around the product. Common for books, frames, and flat items.
Die-Cut:Custom-shaped box cut with a steel die. Used for retail packaging, mailers, and products requiring precise fit.
Scored:A crease pressed into corrugated board to allow folding. Proper scoring prevents cracking and ensures clean folds.
Linerboard:The flat outer faces of corrugated board. Made from kraft paper (brown) or test liner (recycled fiber).
Fluting:The wavy middle layer of corrugated board that provides cushioning and structural support.
ECT:Edge Crush Test. Measures how much force corrugated board takes on its edge. Higher ECT generally means better stacking strength.
Burst Strength:How much pressure the board takes before it ruptures. Shown in the older "#" rating system (for example, 200#).
Caliper:The thickness of the corrugated board, measured in thousandths of an inch (points).
DIM Weight:Dimensional Weight. A pricing method carriers use based on volume rather than actual weight. Calculated as (L x W x H) / DIM factor.
Knock-Down (KD):A box shipped flat and unassembled. Saves storage space and shipping cost. Must be erected and taped before use.
Kraft:Unbleached brown paper made from wood pulp. The standard color of corrugated board. Stronger than recycled test liner.
SFC:Single Face Corrugated. One layer of fluting glued to one flat liner. Used for wrapping, cushioning, and surface protection.
Mullen Test:A burst strength test that measures how much pressure corrugated board can withstand before rupturing.
Box Certificate:A round stamp, usually on the bottom flap, showing the maker and the board rating. Check current carrier rules for how ratings are used.
Pallet Pattern:The arrangement of boxes on a pallet for maximum stability and space utilization. Common patterns include column, interlocking, and pinwheel.
Void Fill:Material used to fill empty space inside a box to prevent product movement. Includes packing peanuts, air pillows, crumpled paper, and foam inserts.
Corrugating Medium:The paperboard sheet that gets fluted (shaped into waves). Together with linerboard, it forms the structure of corrugated board.

Matching Box Strength to Your Load

Choosing the right box strength for your product helps prevent damage. This is a starting point only. Ask the supplier for rated capacity, and judge a used box on its condition as well as its certificate.

Your LoadBox Type to ConsiderECT Rating
Light items, parcel shippingSingle wall32 ECT
Moderate items, some stackingSingle wall (C flute) or heavy single wall32-44 ECT
Heavier items, regular stackingHeavy single wall or double wall44-48 ECT
Heavy or fragile itemsDouble wall (BC flute)48 ECT
Heavy industrial partsHeavier double wall or triple wallPer certificate
Large bulk loadsGaylordPer certificate

Stacking & Storage Guidelines

Proper stacking protects products, helps prevent damage, and makes better use of warehouse space. These guidelines apply to both new and used corrugated boxes.

General Rules

  • Stack boxes only on flat, level surfaces to distribute weight evenly.
  • Do not overload a box. Check the certificate on the bottom flap, and ask the supplier for rated capacity.
  • In humid conditions, stack lower, because moisture weakens corrugated.
  • Stack heaviest boxes at the bottom, lightest on top.
  • Align boxes in columns (not brickwork) for maximum vertical crush resistance.
  • Use tier sheets (flat cardboard or plastic) between pallet layers to distribute load across all boxes in a row.
  • Avoid overhanging edges. Every box corner should be supported by the box or surface below it.
  • Fill boxes properly. Partially filled boxes can collapse more easily under load.

Storage Environment

  • Keep cardboard dry. Moisture reduces compression strength.
  • Aim for a cool, dry, stable storage space.
  • Keep away from direct sunlight which degrades adhesives and weakens board.
  • Store flat (knocked-down) when possible to maximize warehouse space.
  • Elevate pallets off the floor with dunnage or pallet racks to prevent moisture wicking from concrete.
  • Keep stacks clear of sprinkler heads. Check your local fire code for the required clearance.
  • Rotate stock using FIFO (first in, first out) to prevent prolonged compression on bottom boxes.

Pallet Stacking Patterns

The arrangement of boxes on a pallet affects both stability during transport and compression strength in storage.

Column Stack

Each box sits directly on top of the one below. Maximum compression strength. Best for storage and static pallets.

Interlock / Brick

Alternate layers rotated 90 degrees. Better lateral stability for transport, though it gives up some compression strength.

Pinwheel

Boxes arranged in a rotating pattern around a center. Good for non-uniform box sizes and mixed pallets.

Used Box Stacking Considerations

Used boxes generally lose some compression strength with use. Grades are not an official standard, so treat these notes as general guidance:

  • Grade A: Closest to new. Check for firm walls and corners before stacking.
  • Grade B: Light wear. Stack with care and leave a margin.
  • Grade C: Visible wear. Stack lower than you would with a cleaner box.
  • Grade D: Heavy wear. Best for light, unstacked storage.

How to Choose the Right Box

Step 1: Determine Product Dimensions

Measure the length, width, and height of your product. Add 1-2 inches to each dimension for cushioning material (bubble wrap, foam, packing peanuts).

Step 2: Consider Product Weight

Match your product to an appropriate strength. Too light a box risks damage, and too heavy a box wastes material. Use the strength guide above, then ask the supplier for rated capacity.

Step 3: Account for Shipping Method

Freight and international shipments generally need stronger boxes than parcel shipments. Consider the journey your box will take, and check current carrier rules.

Step 4: Factor in Storage

If boxes will be stacked or stored long-term, choose a higher ECT rating. Factor in environmental conditions like humidity and temperature.

Step 5: Consider Presentation

Customer-facing shipments may warrant Grade A or new boxes. Internal moves and storage can often use Grade C or D.

Metric Conversion Table

A quick reference for converting common US box sizes to metric measurements. Volume is calculated from the listed dimensions in inches, and centimeters are rounded.

Inches (L x W x H)Centimeters (approx.)Volume (Liters)
4 x 4 x 410 x 10 x 101.0 L
6 x 6 x 615 x 15 x 153.5 L
8 x 8 x 820 x 20 x 208.4 L
10 x 10 x 1025 x 25 x 2516.4 L
12 x 12 x 1230 x 30 x 3028.3 L
14 x 14 x 1436 x 36 x 3645.0 L
16 x 16 x 1641 x 41 x 4167.1 L
18 x 18 x 1846 x 46 x 4695.6 L
20 x 20 x 2051 x 51 x 51131 L
24 x 24 x 2461 x 61 x 61226 L
30 x 30 x 3076 x 76 x 76442 L
36 x 36 x 3691 x 91 x 91764 L
48 x 40 x 36122 x 102 x 911,133 L

Conversion Formulas

Inches to CM: Multiply inches by 2.54
Cubic inches to Liters: Divide cubic inches by 61.024
Pounds to KG: Multiply pounds by 0.4536

Custom Size Options

When standard sizes do not fit your product, ask a partner supplier about custom sizing. Availability varies, and pricing, minimums, and lead times are set by the supplier. Requests are taken from Portland, Oregon and the metro area.

Custom New Boxes

  • Made to the dimensions you specify.
  • Single, double, or triple wall construction, depending on the supplier.
  • Custom printing may be available.
  • Minimums and lead times depend on the supplier and the job.

Trimmed or Reconditioned Used Boxes

  • Some suppliers can score and trim used boxes to a lower height.
  • Useful when standard used sizes are close but not exact.
  • Trimming usually changes height only, not length or width.
  • Ask a partner supplier; availability varies.
  • A good fit for businesses that need a specific height but can be flexible on L x W.

How to Request a Custom Size

1

Measure Your Product

Record exact L x W x H of the item including any protrusions, then add 1-2 inches per side for cushioning.

2

Choose Box Strength

Determine the ECT rating or wall type needed based on product weight and shipping conditions.

3

Request a Quote

Use the form to send your dimensions, quantity, strength requirements, and desired timeline.

4

A Partner Supplier Follows Up

A partner supplier follows up with pricing, lead time, and available options.

Not Sure Which Size You Need?

Send a free, no-obligation quote request with your product dimensions and quantity. We pass requests from Portland, Oregon and the metro area to partner suppliers, and a partner supplier follows up. Availability depends on partner suppliers.

Close