Shipping Limitations: What You Need to Know

When you send a parcel, the carrier isn’t going to accept just anything. Every courier has clear limits on weight, size, and what you can ship. Hitting those limits can cause delays, extra charges, or even a rejected shipment. Below we break down the main rules you’ll face and how to keep your package moving smoothly.

Weight and Size Rules

Most couriers cap packages at around 70 kg (150 lb) for standard services. Anything heavier usually needs a freight service, which costs more and may require special handling. Size limits are just as strict – a typical maximum is 150 cm (59 in) on any side, and the combined length‑plus‑girth (the distance around the thickest part) can’t exceed 300 cm (118 in). If your box is too big, the carrier will either charge a dimensional weight fee or refuse it outright.

To avoid surprises, measure your parcel after you pack it. Use a tape measure, not just an eyeball. Then compare those numbers with the carrier’s published limits. If you’re close to the edge, consider a smaller box or a lighter packaging material.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

Every courier publishes a list of items you can’t ship. Commonly banned goods include explosives, flammable liquids, batteries that aren’t packed correctly, and certain chemicals. Even everyday products like aerosol sprays can be flagged if they exceed a volume limit.

If you’re unsure whether an item is allowed, search the carrier’s restricted‑item guide before you buy the box. Most sites let you type the product name and see a quick answer. Ignoring this step often leads to a returned shipment and wasted time.

For international shipments, the rules get tighter. Countries have their own customs constraints, and some goods that are fine domestically are outright banned abroad. Always double‑check the destination country’s import regulations.

Practical Tips to Stay Within Limits

1. Weigh first, pack later. Put the item in a bag, weigh it, then add packaging material. That way you know the exact weight before you add extra padding.

2. Use the right box size. A box that’s too large adds unnecessary dimensional weight. Choose a box that snugly fits the product.

3. Label correctly. If you’re shipping batteries or liquids, put the required warning labels on the package. Missing labels can cause a carrier to reject the shipment.

4. Break big orders into smaller parcels. If a single shipment exceeds weight or size limits, split it into two or three packages that stay under the caps.

5. Check the carrier’s calculator. Most major couriers have an online tool where you enter weight and dimensions and get a price instantly. The tool will also warn you if the package is out of bounds.

Following these steps saves you from surprise fees and keeps your customers happy. Nobody likes a delayed order, and staying within shipping limits is the easiest way to avoid it.

When Limits Bite – What to Do

If your package gets flagged, don’t panic. First, ask the carrier why it was rejected. Often the issue is a simple measurement error that you can fix on the spot. If the item truly exceeds the limit, explore freight or specialized services that handle oversized or heavy shipments. They cost more, but they’re built for that kind of load.

Remember, every carrier wants your business, so they’ll work with you to find a solution. Communicate clearly, provide the correct dimensions, and you’ll get your parcel on the road without a hitch.

Understanding shipping limitations upfront makes the whole process smoother. Measure, weigh, check restricted items, and use the right service. With those basics covered, you can ship confidently and keep your supply chain moving.