Packing Boxes
Everything you need to know to ensure that your boxed items stay safe and undamaged upon your return.
This article contains the following sections
How to Measure your boxes for shipping
* SpaceShip does not provide packing services.
Can I store or ship my own boxes?
We understand there are situations where our supply kit may not arrive on time or self supplying your own is more convenient.
ECT and burst rate
Keep in mind that the higher Exterior Crust Test (ECT) and burst rate (see examples below) for the boxes you are purchasing, the better the chances are of the boxes holding up to loading, unloading and stacking them while in storage as well as in transit.
Box size, weight, and shipping rules (self-supplied boxes)
Self-supplied boxes used for shipping must follow carrier size and weight limits.
Size limits
- Maximum combined length and girth is 165 inches.
- Calculation: Length + 2 × Width + 2 × Height.
Weight limits
- Maximum actual weight is 70 lb per box.
- Additional UPS overage fees apply to boxes over 40 lb.
- Actual weight is the rounded-up weight of the packed box.
How to measure box dimensions and weight
- Measure each side of the box.
- Determine Length, Width, and Height in inches.
- Round each measurement up to the nearest whole inch.
- Use a scale to weigh the packed box.
- Round any fraction of a pound up to the next whole pound.
Self Supplied Box Size and Weight Limitations
- Storage and shipping follow UPS size and weight limits for self supplied boxes.
- Maximum combined length and girth is 165 inches.
- Use the formula: Length + 2 × Width + 2 × Height.
- Maximum actual weight is 70 lb.
- Additional UPS overage fees apply to boxes over 40 lb.
- The actual weight is the package weight rounded up to the next whole pound.
- Use a scale to determine weight.
- Round any fraction of a pound up to the next whole pound.
UPS packaging guidelines (applied to shipping boxes)
- Use a rigid box with all flaps intact.
- Remove any old labels, hazardous material markings, or irrelevant stickers.
- Wrap each item separately.
- Use adequate cushioning inside the box.
- Seal with clear, strong shipping tape, not masking or scotch tape.
- Use three strips of tape across both the top and bottom seams.
- Do not use string or paper over-wrap; use tape only.
- Each box needs a unique address label with complete delivery and return information created through the Dorm Room Movers website.
- Place a duplicate address label inside the box (trimmed from the printed label).
Visit this link for more information: https://www.ups.com/packaging/?loc=en_US
UPS audits shipments based on what is entered on the shipping label:
- Inaccurate or rounded-down measurements can trigger additional fees.
- Dimensions and weight should match what is entered when generating the label in the Dorm Room Movers account.
For detailed instructions on international shipments, inventory lists, and customs requirements, refer to the International Shipping article linked in the Help Center.