Packing Volume Calculator (Moving & Shipping)

How this packing calculator works

• Item volume: length × width × height × quantity. We add optional weight too.
• Box capacity: internal L × W × H. Usable capacity = capacity × efficiency × (1 − fragile%).
• Quick estimate: Boxes needed = ceil(total item volume ÷ usable capacity of chosen box).
• Detailed plan: If you provide multiple box types and quantities, we sum their usable capacities and compare to your items to show utilization and any shortfall.
• Weights: If you give item weights and box max weights, we estimate average weight per filled box and flag potential overloading.

Packing Best Practices for Moving & Shipping

Smart packing protects your belongings, reduces the number of boxes you need, and keeps individual boxes lift-safe for you and your courier. The tips below expand on the calculator’s assumptions—like packing efficiency and internal capacity—so your real-world results match the numbers on screen.

Measure what actually fits

• Use internal dimensions: Box listings often quote external sizes; the usable space is smaller due to wall thickness and flaps. Our calculator expects internal length, width, and height.
• Account for padding: Wrap fragile items and add corner protection; this occupies volume. The Fragile padding slider reduces usable capacity to simulate this.
• Think in orientations: Many items can rotate—measure the smallest three-axis footprint that still protects the item.

Weight, lifting, and balance

• Heaviest items in smaller boxes: Books, tools, and hardware are dense; keep them in small or medium boxes to stay under typical lift-safe limits (often <25 kg / 55 lb).
• Distribute weight: Mix light textiles with heavier objects to keep box weights even and prevent crushed cartons on the bottom of a stack.
• Respect max ratings: If a box has a stated maximum weight, treat it as a hard limit—corrugated strength drops if the box gets damp or re-used repeatedly.

Fill voids and protect edges

• Void fill: Crumpled kraft paper, air pillows, or foam corners stop items shifting. This is captured by the calculator’s Packing efficiency setting—bulky loads need lower efficiency than neat, rectangular loads.
• Layering: Heavier items at the base, lighter and fragile items on top, with crush-resistant dividers or cardboard sheets between layers.
• Seal correctly: Use the H-tape method (top and bottom) with quality packing tape; avoid masking or duct tape which can peel under load.

Labeling and handling

• Label and balance: Mark “Fragile,” “This side up,” and room destinations. Add gross weight if near the limit; it helps movers and carriers plan stacking.
• Stack smart: Heaviest boxes on the floor, then medium, then light. Keep stacks square and avoid overhang to maintain stacking strength.
• Climate matters: In damp storage, choose double-wall cartons, desiccant packs, and plastic totes for textiles and electronics.

Dimensional weight & carriers

• Shipping charges: Couriers may bill by dimensional weight (box size) rather than actual mass. A large, light box can cost more than a small, heavy one.
• Right-sizing: Use the smallest internal volume that safely fits your items; split into multiple smaller boxes if it avoids oversize surcharges.

Sustainability & reuse

• Choose recyclable materials: Paper-based void fill and paper tape recycle easily with the carton.
• Reuse wisely: Inspect reused boxes for crushed corners, tears, and moisture damage. Retire compromised cartons to light-duty roles.

This tool provides estimates. For shipping, always confirm carrier size, weight, and dimensional-weight rules, plus any packaging requirements for fragile or hazardous items.