Watch: How to Measure and Weigh Your Shipment the Right Way
Not sure how to measure your parcel, satchel, or pallet? This short video walks you through everything you need to know before booking your shipment, from grabbing the right tools to entering accurate dimensions and weight.
A few extra seconds measuring correctly can save you from unexpected surcharges and delivery delays.
Watch the video, then scroll down for a full breakdown of how to measure and weigh different shipment types, what to avoid, and everything else to consider before you book.
What You'll Need
Before you start, grab two things:
- A tape measure or ruler
- A digital scale
Kitchen or luggage scales are not recommended as they are often less accurate than a proper digital scale. If you ship regularly, it is worth investing in one that suits the size and weight of the parcels you send.
Measuring Dimensions
How to Measure a Satchel or Shipping Box
✔ Measure the longest point of the length, width, and height of your parcel. Always round up to the nearest centimetre. For example:
- 32.4cm → 33cm
- 31.8cm → 32cm
✔ A good tip: place your box against a wall when measuring each side. This gives you a more accurate reading.
✔ Measure from the widest point of each side, including any bulging or irregular edges.
✘ Do not measure the item on its own if it has an irregular shape.
✔ Pack it into a standard shaped box first, then measure the final packaged parcel.
A common mistake with satchels is forgetting that they can fold, scrunch, or sag. If the shape changes between what you enter and what the courier scanner reads, that can lead to extra charges.
✔ Make sure your item sits snug inside the satchel so it holds its shape during transit.
Ready to pack your parcel? Check out our guide on how to pack a parcel, or jump straight to how to send a parcel if you're ready to book.
How to Measure a Pallet
✔ Measure the total length, width, and height from the widest points of the entire pallet, including all packaging and any items that may stick out. Do not guess these numbers.
Not sure how to wrap and secure your pallet first? See our guide on how to pack a pallet, or head to how to send a pallet if you're ready to get a quote.
How to Weigh Your Shipment
✔ Place your parcel on a digital scale and always round up to the next 500 grams or kilogram. For example:
- 1.2kg → 1.5kg
- 2.6kg → 3kg
✔ For pallets, these are typically weighed on large platform scales in a warehouse or freight facility. Make sure the total weight includes the weight of the timber pallet itself, not just the goods on top.
✘ Kitchen and bathroom scales are not suitable for weighing shipments as they are often inaccurate and not built for the weight ranges couriers require. If you ship regularly, it is worth investing in a proper digital scale that suits the size and weight of your parcels.
It can be tempting to enter lower measurements to save on costs, but courier conveyor systems automatically scan your parcel's actual dimensions and weight. If your measurements are incorrect, you could end up with surcharges, delivery delays, or even a returned parcel.
Understanding Dead Weight vs. Volumetric Weight
Couriers look at two figures when calculating your shipping rate:
Dead weight is the actual physical weight of your parcel on a scale.
Volumetric weight (also known as cubic weight) is based on the amount of space your parcel takes up.
Your shipping rate is based on whichever figure is higher. This is why getting both your dimensions and weight right matters so much.
Learn more about Dead Weight and Volumetric Weight here.
Take a Photo Before You Send
Before handing your shipment over for collection, take a photo of your parcel or pallet next to a tape measure showing the dimensions, and a clear photo of it on the scale showing the weight.
If there is ever a dispute about measurements or charges later on, this is the evidence that helps us resolve it quickly on your behalf. It takes a few seconds and can save you a lot of hassle.
Don't Let Shipping Become a Challenge.
We're Here to Assist!
At Interparcel, we believe in keeping a personal connection in everything we do.
If you have any enquiries, our friendly customer support team is ready to help by phone, live chat, or email!
Reach Out to Customer ServiceFAQs
How do I measure the length, width, and height of a parcel?
Use a tape measure or ruler and measure from the longest point of each side. Length is the longest side, width is the shorter side, and height is how tall the parcel is when sitting flat. Always measure from the outermost points, including any bulging or irregular edges, and round up to the nearest centimetre.
What are the measurements of a standard pallet?
The standard Australian timber pallet measures 1165mm x 1165mm, with a height of approximately 150mm. However, when booking a shipment, the measurements you need to enter are the total dimensions of your fully packed pallet, including everything stacked on top and any packaging that extends beyond the base. This will always be larger than the pallet itself, so make sure you measure the full load from the widest points.
How do I measure a pallet for shipping?
Once your pallet is fully packed and wrapped, measure the total length, width, and height from the widest points of the entire load, including the timber pallet at the base and any items or packaging that may stick out. Do not estimate these numbers. When entering the weight, include the weight of the timber pallet as well as all the goods on top.
What are the measurements of a wooden pallet?
The standard wooden pallet size in Australia is 1165mm x 1165mm, with a height of approximately 150mm. Keep in mind that when shipping, couriers need the total dimensions of your packed pallet, not the pallet on its own.
What are the different types of shipping scales?
The right scale depends on what you are sending. For small parcels, a compact bench scale works well and can handle weights up to around 40kg. For heavier parcels that require greater accuracy, a medium-duty platform scale is a more suitable option. For large freight and pallet shipments, heavy-duty platform scales are the right choice, and these are typically found in warehouses and freight facilities. Kitchen and bathroom scales are not suitable for shipping, as they are not built for the weight ranges or accuracy levels that couriers require.
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