Package Length Plus Girth Calculator
Measure a parcel's length plus girth and see whether it falls within common carrier size limits.
How to use the Package Length Plus Girth Calculator
- Enter the side 1 and pick its unit.
- Enter the side 2 and pick its unit.
- Enter the side 3 and pick its unit.
- Enter the weight and pick its unit.
- Press Calculate. The result updates automatically as you type, and you can switch the result unit at any time.
About the Package Length Plus Girth Calculator
Carriers cap parcel size with a combined "length plus girth" figure rather than volume, because a long, thin item and a fat, short one are handled differently on conveyor belts. Always take the longest side as the length; the calculator sorts the sides for you, so enter them in any order.
Packages close to a limit are often charged surcharges well before they are refused. UPS and FedEx add additional handling fees for long or wide boxes and large package fees above 130 in. USPS prices parcels over 108 in combined length and girth as oversized in Ground Advantage. Measure the outside of the box after it is taped, since bulging sides add inches.
Formula
Length = longest side
Girth = 2 × (Width + Height) = the distance around the package at its thickest part
Length + girth = Length + 2 × (Width + Height)
For a 30 × 20 × 15 in box, girth is 2 × (20 + 15) = 70 in, and length plus girth is 30 + 70 = 100 in.
Example calculation
Using the default values:
- Side 1 = 30 in
- Side 2 = 20 in
- Side 3 = 15 in
the calculator returns:
- Length + girth: 100 in
- Girth: 70 in
- Length (longest side): 30 in
Frequently asked questions
How do you measure girth on a box?
Measure the two shorter sides, add them, and double the result. It is the same as wrapping a tape measure around the box at its thickest point.
What is the maximum package size for USPS?
Most USPS services accept up to 108 in length plus girth and 70 lb; USPS Ground Advantage takes up to 130 in at oversized pricing.
What is the maximum size for UPS and FedEx?
Both cap standard parcels at 108 in long, 165 in length plus girth and 150 lb. Larger items must go as freight.
Last updated: · Category: Shipping & Logistics calculators