Calculate the girth: what it is for and how to calculate it

Understanding how to calculate the girth of a parcel is essential for businesses that rely on shipping services. Girth measurements play a crucial role in determining shipping costs and ensuring packages comply with carrier restrictions. This article will explain what girth means, why it is important, and how to accurately calculate it.

What does the girth mean?

Girth refers to the measurement around the thickest part of a parcel, typically encompassing the width and height of the package. It is a critical dimension used by shipping companies to assess the size of a parcel. The girth measurement, combined with the length, helps determine if a package meets the size limits set by carriers. Understanding and accurately calculating the girth ensures that your packages are accepted and transported efficiently.

On the official websites of freight carriers, there are calculators available to estimate shipping costs. Some calculators automatically compute the cost after inputting all dimensions, allowing you to avoid manually measuring the parcel's dimensions or length. On Shipstage, you can connect with suitable transportation companies (DHL, UPS, TNT, GLS, FedEx, IDS) and quickly determine the shipping cost for your cargo with each of them!

Why is it necessary to calculate the girth?

Calculating the girth of a parcel is crucial for several reasons, including:

By understanding these reasons and calculating the girth accurately, businesses can streamline their shipping processes and reduce costs effectively.

Calculating the girth: how is the girth of a parcel calculated?

To calculate the girth of a parcel, you need to measure its width and height. Follow these steps:

1. Measure the width: measure the widest part of the parcel from one side to the other.

2. Measure the height: measure the height of the parcel from the base to the top.

3. Calculate the girth: use the formula: Girth = 2 × (Width + Height).

For example, if the width of your parcel is 30 cm and the height is 20 cm, the girth would be calculated as follows:

Girth = 2 × (30 cm + 20 cm) = 2 × 50 cm = 100 cm

Calculate Girth vs. Calculate Volumetric Weight

When shipping parcels, two parameters serve as the basis for transportation: girth and volumetric weight. Girth determines the parcel's compliance with the carrier’s size restrictions, while volumetric weight directly impacts the shipping cost.

Girth Calculation. Girth refers to the measurement around the thickest part of a parcel, calculated using the formula Girth = 2 × (Width + Height). It primarily influences shipping costs by determining the size category of the parcel.

Volumetric Weight Calculation. Volumetric weight, also known as dimensional weight, assesses the parcel's density relative to its size. It is calculated using the formula Volumetric Weight = (Length × Width × Height) / Volumetric Factor. This metric is crucial when shipping lightweight but bulky items, ensuring fair pricing based on the space the parcel occupies.

Key Differences:

• Purpose: girth calculation determines the physical size for shipping categorization, while volumetric weight assesses the space a parcel occupies  for pricing purposes.
• Application: girth is used to determine parcel size restrictions and handling, whereas volumetric weight affects pricing calculations for lightweight, bulky items.

Understanding the distinction between these measurements helps businesses optimize packaging and shipping strategies, ensuring cost-effective and efficient delivery solutions.

Limiting the Aspect Ratio of a Parcel

The aspect ratio of a parcel refers to the proportion between its dimensions, such as length, width, and height. Carriers often impose restrictions on the maximum allowable aspect ratio of parcels for logistical reasons.

Importance of Limiting Aspect Ratio:

Maintaining a balanced aspect ratio ensures parcels can be efficiently stacked and transported within shipping containers. Carriers enforce these limits to optimize space utilization and prevent logistical challenges during transit.

Example Scenario:

For instance, a carrier may specify that the length cannot exceed twice the width, ensuring parcels are compact and easy to handle. This restriction helps in minimizing wasted space and maximizing the number of parcels that can be accommodated in a shipment.

Compliance and Impact:

Adhering to aspect ratio limits reduces the risk of additional charges or refusal of shipment. It also enhances the efficiency of the shipping process, benefiting both carriers and recipients.

Understanding and adhering to aspect ratio limits is essential for businesses seeking cost-effective and reliable shipping solutions.

Accurate parcel volume calculation is essential for both logistical planning and cost assessment in shipping.

Calculation Method. To determine the volume of a parcel, multiply its length, width, and height:

Volume = Length × Width × Height

Significance in Shipping. Parcel volume directly influences shipping costs and carrier restrictions. Accurate volume calculations help carriers optimize space utilization and ensure efficient transportation.

These calculations are crucial not only for determining volumetric weight but also for obtaining precise measurements to get a girth measurement, which is essential for compliance with carrier guidelines and avoiding additional charges.

Volumetric Weight. Volumetric weight, also known as dimensional weight, is a metric used by carriers to determine the shipping cost based on the parcel's density. It accounts for the space a parcel occupies rather than its actual weight. This is particularly important for lightweight but bulky items.

Volumetric Weight Calculation Formula. The formula to calculate volumetric weight is:

Volumetric Weight = (Length × Width × Height) / Volumetric Factor

The volumetric factor varies among carriers, but a common standard is 5000 for international shipments.

For example:

Volumetric Weight = (50 cm × 40 cm × 30 cm) / 5000 = 12 kg

Comparison and Impact. Carriers compare the actual weight and volumetric weight of the parcel. The higher of the two is used to determine the shipping cost. This practice ensures fair pricing, especially for large, lightweight packages that occupy significant space.

Example Application. For instance, if you are shipping a large but lightweight item, its actual weight might be low, but its volumetric weight could be high due to its size. By calculating both weights, carriers can charge appropriately, considering the space the item occupies in their transport vehicles.

Optimizing Packing Efficiency. By understanding and calculating both parcel volume and volumetric weight, businesses can optimize their packaging strategies. This involves selecting suitable packaging materials, reducing excess space, and ensuring cost-effective shipping.

In conclusion, accurate volume and volumetric weight calculations are crucial for efficient and cost-effective shipping. B2B-businesses must pay close attention to these metrics to comply with carrier guidelines, avoid additional charges, and ensure smooth delivery processes.

Calculating the Girth of Different Shipping Service Providers

When shipping packages, each courier service applies its own rules and recommendations. However, the formula for calculating girth is universal for all parcel carriers. It looks like this:

Girth = 2 × (Width + Height) + Length.

B2B companies should consider the rules of freight carriers when developing a logistics strategy. This will allow them to choose the best delivery option for their customers and avoid additional charges. Below, we will discuss some features of package delivery by various courier services: DHL, DPD, GLS, UPS, FedEx, TNT, and Hermes.

DHL Girth Calculation Formula

DHL uses a standard formula for calculating the girth of a package, as mentioned above. For efficient cargo handling, this courier service also defines the maximum dimensions for standard parcels. This ensures that the package will fit within the width of the conveyor belt.

If the package exceeds the dimensions of 120 cm x 60 cm x 60 cm (length x width x height) in any one measurement (e.g., 80 cm x 65 cm x 55 cm), it is automatically classified as oversized. In such cases, additional costs may arise due to the special handling and transportation of oversized cargo.

DHL has specific shipping requirements. The minimum package dimensions are: length 15 cm, width 11 cm, height 1 cm. The longest side of the package must not exceed 200 cm. The belt size is calculated using the formula: longest side + 2 x width + 2 x height, and can be a maximum of 360 cm.

Maximum parcel dimensions (120 x 60 x 60 cm) are subject to the same limits for the longest side (200 cm) and belt size (360 cm). If the parcel dimensions fit within the established standard, its cost is calculated based on weight, with a maximum of 31.5 kg for standard shipments. However, if a parcel exceeds these dimensions or has special packaging requirements, an additional fee will be charged to the sender.

DPD Girth Calculation Formula

At DPD, the maximum girth size varies depending on whether you use parcel delivery through the Pickup parcel shop network or opt for direct shipping through DPD.

When delivering to a parcel shop, your package can have a maximum length of 100 cm and a maximum girth of 250 cm. For shipments with collection, larger package sizes are allowed — the maximum length is 175 cm, and the maximum girth is 300 cm. This applies to both DPD Classic and DPD Express.

GLS Girth Calculation Formula

GLS calculates the girth of a parcel as the sum of its length and its circumference (2 x height + 2 x width). This method applies to all GLS shipments, including domestic shipments within Germany. The maximum allowable girth of a parcel is 300 cm.

For standard parcels, the following dimensions apply: height up to 60 cm, width up to 80 cm, and length up to 200 cm.

Please note that even if individual dimensions meet these criteria, the total girth must not exceed 300 cm. Customers must carefully verify that their parcels comply with GLS requirements before shipping.

UPS Girth Calculation Formula

UPS has certain size restrictions for parcels. The maximum length of a package is 274 cm, and the girth is 400 cm.

Special attention should be given to parcels with a girth of over 300 cm. These are classified as oversized and incur a minimum weight charge of 40 kg.

It is also important to remember that some countries may have specific regulations, so it is recommended to check the details at a UPS location before shipping.

FedEx Girth Calculation Formula

Through the FedEx postal service, you can send packages with a maximum length of 274 cm. The girth of the package must not exceed 330 cm. The calculation of the girth is standard – add the double width and the double height to the length of the package.

This applies to all types of shipments: international, within Europe, and within Germany. For each shipment that exceeds the established limits, a separate rate will apply.

TNT Girth Calculation Formula

TNT is one of the few courier services that does not use a girth calculation formula to limit parcel sizes. However, the maximum dimensions set by the company indirectly limit the maximum girth. TNT customers do not need to check the girth of their parcels if their dimensions comply with the established limits.

For domestic shipments within Germany, the maximum dimensions are 3.02 m x 2.03 m x 1.78 m (length x width x height). For European or international express shipments, the maximum parcel dimensions are 2.4 m x 1.2 m x 1.5 m, respectively.

Depending on the chosen delivery service (express shipping, non-standard parcel delivery), TNT customers may encounter additional charges. It is important to remember that maximum weight and dimension limits for parcels may vary by country. This is especially relevant for international shipments.

Hermes Girth Calculation Formula

In the Hermes courier service, emphasis is placed on the dimensions of parcels. Hermes uses a simplified method to determine parcel dimensions for tariff calculation.

If the parcel weighs no more than 25 kg when sent from a drop-off point or 31.5 kg when picked up from home, only the parcel's dimensions need to be checked to determine the tariff. The longest and shortest sides of the parcel are measured and added together. The resulting value will determine the shipping cost.

At Hermes, tariffs are differentiated by size. Within Germany, the following parcel tariffs apply: Hermes Päckchen, S, M, L, XL, and XXL. For international shipments, the tariffs are XS, S, M, and L respectively.

Example calculation for Germany: The dimensions of the parcel are 15 cm in height, 18 cm in length, and 10 cm in width. The sum of the longest and shortest sides is 28 cm. The Hermes Päckchen tariff requires the sum of the longest and shortest sides to be no more than 37 cm. Therefore, this tariff applies to your parcel.

Additionally, within Europe, the sum of the longest and shortest sides is limited to 120 cm. The same rule applies within Germany when shipping from one Hermes drop-off point to another. For door-to-door delivery, the sum of the longest and shortest sides must not exceed 200 cm, with the third side limited to a maximum of 50 cm.

If the parcel is oversized, has protrusions, or a shape different from a parallelepiped, Hermes considers it bulky cargo, which incurs an additional fee.

Seven Tips for Packing Your Parcels

Sending parcels efficiently and securely requires proper packing. Here are seven tips to ensure your parcels arrive safely:

1. Choose the Right Box. Use a sturdy box that is appropriate for the size and weight of your items. Avoid oversized boxes to prevent unnecessary dimensional weight charges.

2. Wrap Fragile Items. Bubble wrap, foam, or packing peanuts can provide cushioning to protect fragile items. Ensure they are securely wrapped and have at least 2 inches of cushioning around them.

3. Seal Securely. Use strong packing tape to seal all seams of the box securely. Reinforce edges and seams with tape to prevent the box from bursting open during transit.

4. Label Clearly. Clearly write or print the recipient's address and your return address on the outside of the box. Include any necessary labels or special instructions for the courier.

5. Consider Weight Distribution. Place heavier items at the bottom of the box and lighter items on top. Distribute weight evenly to prevent the box from becoming lopsided or tipping over.

6. Use Inner Packaging. For items with multiple components, use dividers or compartments within the box to keep them from shifting during transit. This helps prevent damage.

7. Measure and Weigh Accurately. Use a scale to weigh your parcel accurately and measure its dimensions. This ensures you provide the courier with the correct information and avoid additional charges.

Conclusion

Here are some key points to consider.

Proper parcel packing in the B2B sector addresses several tasks:

• Firstly, it optimizes shipping costs by reducing parcel volume and using more favorable carrier rates.
• Secondly, it ensures the integrity of goods during transportation.
• Thirdly, it improves customer relationships by speeding up delivery and ensuring transparent billing.

Clear labeling, appropriate packaging materials, and accurate measurements are crucial for improving overall logistics efficiency in B2B companies. Correct girth measurement ensures parcels are within acceptable sizes, promoting smooth and cost-effective delivery processes.

This information also helps courier services:

• Provide justified shipping rates to senders.
• Ensure compliance with shipping rules and eliminate the likelihood of additional fees.

Thus, a complete measurement of parcel dimensions allows the B2B sector to better structure its logistics strategy, directly impacting profitability. Additionally, attention to detail promotes a more sustainable delivery process.

Recommendations:

• Use online calculators to measure parcel volume.
• Pay attention to the sustainability of packaging materials.
• Consider standardizing packaging within the company.
• Implement specialized software to automate processes.

FAQ

Why do parcel services specify a girth?

Parcel services specify girth to accurately calculate the dimensional weight of packages, which is crucial for determining shipping costs. Girth is measured as the distance around the thickest part of the package, perpendicular to its length. This helps carriers ensure packages meet size restrictions and avoid oversized parcel surcharges. Accurately measuring girth allows for optimized packaging, efficient space utilization in shipping vehicles, and adherence to carrier guidelines, ultimately reducing shipping costs and preventing unexpected fees.

What is girth 300 cm?

A girth of 300 cm refers to the combined measurement of the circumference around the thickest part of the package and the package's longest side. To calculate this, you add the length of the longest side to the girth, which is measured as 2 times the width plus 2 times the height. This metric is used by couriers to evaluate the overall size of the package, ensuring it meets size restrictions, and to determine shipping costs. This measurement is critical for managing space in transport vehicles and for applying appropriate shipping fees.

Who has the largest girth?

The term «largest girth» typically refers to packages with exceptionally large dimensions and weight. Among major courier services, the specific guidelines for maximum girth vary:

• DHL: Generally, the maximum girth is 300 cm (118 inches).
• UPS: The maximum combined length and girth is 419 cm (165 inches).
• FedEx: The maximum girth allowed is 330 cm (130 inches) for standard services.

Oversized packages that exceed these dimensions require special handling, incur higher shipping costs, and may face delivery restrictions.