FedEx Package Dimensions: A Complete Guide

Understanding and correctly applying FedEx package dimensions is crucial for accurate shipping costs, avoiding surcharges, and ensuring your items arrive safely. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to measure, calculate, and manage package dimensions for FedEx shipments.

Key Takeaways

• Accurate Measurement is Key: Precisely measure length, width, and height for correct dimensional weight calculation.
• Dimensional Weight vs. Actual Weight: FedEx charges based on whichever is greater.
• Understanding the Formula: Utilize FedEx's specific formula (L x W x H) / Divisor to determine dimensional weight.
• Divisor Varies: Be aware that the dimensional weight divisor can change.
• Avoid Surcharges: Correctly applying dimensions prevents unexpected fees.
• Consistency Matters: Implement consistent measurement practices for all shipments.

Introduction

Shipping with FedEx involves more than just knowing the weight of your package. FedEx, like most major carriers, uses a system called dimensional weight (or volumetric weight) to calculate shipping costs. This system accounts for the space a package occupies, not just its actual weight. If you're wondering 'how do I do dimensions with FedEx?', this article will guide you through the entire process, from measuring your packages to understanding the charges and avoiding common pitfalls.

What are FedEx Package Dimensions and Why Do They Matter?

FedEx package dimensions refer to the length, width, and height of a shipping container. These measurements are critical because they directly influence your shipping costs through the concept of dimensional weight.

Dimensional Weight Explained

Dimensional weight is a calculation FedEx uses to determine the minimum charge for a package based on its volume. The idea is that a large, lightweight package takes up significant space on a delivery truck or aircraft, just as a heavy package does. If FedEx only charged by actual weight, shippers could send bulky items cheaply, which wouldn't be profitable for the carrier.

Why Accurate Dimensions are Crucial:

1. Cost Accuracy: By providing correct dimensions, you ensure you're charged the appropriate rate. Incorrect dimensions can lead to unexpected surcharges or paying more than necessary.
2. Avoiding Surcharges: FedEx applies surcharges for packages exceeding certain size limits or those with inaccurate declared dimensions. For instance, the Oversize Surcharge and Extreme Shippable Limits apply to packages that are too large.
3. Shipping Efficiency: Accurate volumetric data helps FedEx optimize its logistics and resource allocation.
4. Package Compliance: Knowing the dimensions ensures your package complies with FedEx's shipping policies and limits.

What Happens If Dimensions Are Inaccurate?

If FedEx determines that the declared dimensions of your package are inaccurate upon inspection, they will re-weigh and re-measure it. You will then be billed for the higher of the actual weight or the dimensional weight, and potentially be subject to dimensional surcharges or package re-rate fees. This can significantly increase your shipping costs unexpectedly. — Gallup, NM: Your Guide To Zip Codes

How to Measure Package Dimensions for FedEx

Measuring your package accurately is the first and most important step. Follow these guidelines to ensure precision.

Tools You'll Need:

• Measuring Tape or Ruler: A standard retractable tape measure or a sturdy ruler works best.
• Flat Surface: A table or floor to lay the package on.

Step-by-Step Measurement Process:

1. Identify Length, Width, and Height:

   • Length (L): The longest side of the package.
   • Width (W): The second longest side of the package.
   • Height (H): The shortest side of the package (also referred to as depth).

   Important Note: For boxes that are not perfect cubes or rectangular prisms, measure the longest dimension, the second longest, and the shortest, ensuring you are consistent each time. For example, if you have a package that is 10" x 12" x 15", the length is 15", the width is 12", and the height is 10". Always measure the outside dimensions of the box.

2. Measure Each Dimension: Place the package on a flat surface. Use your measuring tape or ruler to determine the measurement for each side.

3. Round Measurements: FedEx typically requires measurements to be rounded to the nearest whole inch. If you measure 10.5 inches, round up to 11 inches. If you measure 10.2 inches, round down to 10 inches. Always check FedEx's latest guidelines for specific rounding rules, as they can occasionally be updated.

4. Record the Dimensions: Write down the Length, Width, and Height in inches (or centimeters, if applicable, but inches are standard for the US). Ensure you label each measurement clearly.

Measuring Irregularly Shaped Packages:

For items that don't come in standard boxes (e.g., rolled posters, oddly shaped items):

• Estimate the smallest rectangular box that would contain the item. Measure the dimensions of this imaginary box.
• Consider using a sturdy shipping tube for items like posters or blueprints. Measure the tube's length and diameter (which represents both width and height).

Calculating FedEx Dimensional Weight

Once you have your accurate measurements, you need to understand how FedEx uses them to calculate dimensional weight. This calculation is crucial because FedEx will charge you for the greater of the package's actual weight or its dimensional weight.

The FedEx Dimensional Weight Formula:

FedEx uses the following formula:

Dimensional Weight = (Length x Width x Height) / Divisor

• Length, Width, Height: Measured in inches (or centimeters, if using metric units).
• Divisor: This number is set by FedEx and can change over time. Historically, it has been 139 for shipments in the U.S. and international shipments. However, FedEx sometimes adjusts this divisor, especially for specific services or regions. Always verify the current divisor on the FedEx website or by contacting FedEx customer service.

Example Calculation:

Let's say you have a package with the following measurements:

• Length = 20 inches
• Width = 15 inches
• Height = 10 inches

And the current FedEx divisor is 139.

1. Calculate the volume: 20" x 15" x 10" = 3000 cubic inches.
2. Calculate dimensional weight: 3000 cubic inches / 139 = 21.58 pounds.

FedEx would round this up to 22 pounds for billing purposes.

Comparing Dimensional Weight to Actual Weight:

Now, compare this calculated dimensional weight (22 lbs in our example) to the package's actual weight.

• If Actual Weight > Dimensional Weight: You will be charged based on the actual weight.
• If Dimensional Weight > Actual Weight: You will be charged based on the dimensional weight.

Continuing the example:

• If the package's actual weight is 18 pounds, FedEx will charge you based on the dimensional weight of 22 pounds.
• If the package's actual weight is 25 pounds, FedEx will charge you based on the actual weight of 25 pounds.

In most cases involving large, lightweight items, the dimensional weight will be higher, so accurate measurement is paramount. — Social Security Office: Timberlake Road, Lynchburg VA

FedEx Size and Weight Limits

FedEx has specific limits for package dimensions and weight to ensure safety and efficient handling. Exceeding these limits can result in additional fees or the rejection of your shipment. — Why Is Steam Down? Troubleshooting Guide

Standard Size Limits (FedEx Express & FedEx Ground):

• Maximum Length: 108 inches (for any single side).
• Maximum Length + Girth: 165 inches (Length + (2 x Width) + (2 x Height)).
  • Girth: The distance around the thickest part of the package, perpendicular to the length.

What is Length + Girth?

This measurement helps FedEx assess the overall size and handling difficulty of a package. It's calculated as:

Length + Girth = Length + (2 x Width) + (2 x Height)

Example: For a package measuring 20" (L) x 15" (W) x 10" (H):

• Length = 20 inches
• Girth = (2 x 15") + (2 x 10") = 30" + 20" = 50 inches
• Length + Girth = 20" + 50" = 70 inches

This package is well within the 165-inch limit.

Packages Exceeding Limits:

• Over 165 inches (Length + Girth) or 108 inches (Length): These packages may be subject to Oversize Surcharges and may require special handling.
• Extreme Shippable Limits: FedEx has an absolute maximum limit for packages. For most services, this is 119 inches for length and 165 inches for Length + Girth. Packages exceeding these are typically not accepted without prior arrangement.

Weight Limits:

• FedEx Ground/Home Delivery: Maximum weight per package is 150 pounds.
• FedEx Express: Maximum weight per package is 150 pounds (though higher limits exist for FedEx Express Freight).

Surcharges to Be Aware Of:

• Oversize Surcharge: Applied to packages where the length exceeds 96 inches or the Length + Girth exceeds 130 inches.
• Additional Handling Surcharge: Applied to packages over 90 inches in length, or over 130 inches in Length + Girth, or weighing over 90 pounds.
• Large Package Surcharge: Applied to packages with actual weight of less than 90 lbs but dimensional weight of 90 lbs or greater, and Length + Girth exceeds 130 inches.

Note: These surcharges are subject to change. Always consult the latest FedEx Service Guide for the most up-to-date information.

When Using FedEx Shipping Software or Online Tools

When you use FedEx's own shipping software (like FedEx Ship Manager) or third-party shipping platforms, you'll be prompted to enter package dimensions and weight.

Entering Dimensions Correctly:

1. Find the Input Fields: Look for fields labeled