What are parcel locker boxes?

Parcel locker boxes are shipping boxes selected so that, once the product is packed, they fit within the specified compartment dimensions. In practice, this means that not only the length and width of the box matter, but also its height after closing, sealing, and securing it with tape.

A parcel locker box should be strong enough to protect the product during transport, while at the same time being as well suited to the contents as possible. A box that is too large increases shipping costs, requires more filler, and allows the product to shift inside. A box that is too small may bulge, come apart, or damage the contents.

In an online store, it is worth treating cartons as an element of the sales process. Good packaging reduces complaints, improves brand perception and facilitates the daily operation of the warehouse. In many cases, it is also worth using additional materials, such as courier poly mailers, bubble mailers. or courier tabs.

Dimensions of parcel lockers A, B and C – dimensions

When shipping to a parcel locker, three basic dimensions are most often used: A, B and C. They differ mainly in the height of the parcel. The length and width are the same for all three sizes, but the height increases with the size.

• Dimension A: maximum 8 × 38 × 64 cm.
• Dimension B: maximum 19 × 38 × 64 cm.
• Dimension C: maximum 41 × 38 × 64 cm.

In practice, this means that a box for size A should be low and flat, a box for size B may be higher and more universal, and size C is intended for larger products or several products in one order.

Dimension A – when to choose a small box?

Size A is a good choice for small and flat products. The maximum height of the package is 8 cm, so low cardboard boxes, shaped boxes, packaging for books, documents, accessories, small electronics, cosmetics or small sets of products will work best here.

Size A is beneficial when you want to reduce shipping costs and the product does not require a tall box. It is a good choice for stores selling books, telephone accessories, jewelry, cosmetics, small toys, spare parts or stationery products.

However, you must be careful not to squeeze the product into a carton that is too low. If the box begins to bulge after closing, it may exceed size A. In such a situation, it is better to choose size B rather than risk a problem when shipping.

Size B – the most universal choice

Size B is often the most practical choice for online stores. The maximum height of the package is 19 cm, so you can send products that are too high for size A, but still do not require the largest compartment.

Dimension B fits cosmetics sets, small electronic equipment, individually packaged products, home accessories, small furnishings, stationery products, textiles, clothes, gift boxes and orders consisting of several smaller products.

For many online stores, cartons in size B are the basic working size. They allow you to pack various orders without having to go straight to the largest size.

Size C – large packages and larger orders

Size C is for larger shipments. The maximum height of the package is 41 cm, so this size is suitable for larger, taller products, several pieces in one order or for goods that require a larger amount of filler.

Dimension C is worth choosing when shipping larger boxes, gift sets, footwear, larger textiles, larger cosmetics, decorative products, home accessories and goods that cannot be safely packed in a lower box.

However, this does not mean that every larger product should go to size C. If the product fits into size B and can be safely secured, a smaller size will usually be more logistically and cost-effective.

How to properly measure a parcel locker box?

Carton should be measured by its external dimensions, not its internal dimensions. This is very important because cardboard manufacturers often provide internal dimensions, i.e. the space available for the product. However, what matters to the carrier is the external dimension of the finished package.

It is best to measure the package only after it is fully prepared for shipping: after inserting the product, adding the filler, closing the flaps, sealing it with tape and attaching the label. If the box is stuffed and rounded on the sides, you need to measure the largest actual dimension, not the theoretical dimension of the empty box.

In the case of online stores, a good solution is to prepare several standard packaging options. For example: a small box for size A, a universal box for size B, and a larger box for size C. This allows warehouse employees to select packaging faster, and the store reduces the number of mistakes.

Table: sizes A, B, C and practical use

The most common mistakes when choosing a box for a parcel locker

The first mistake is to choose a box based solely on the dimensions of the product. You also need to take into account the filling, protection, individual carton and possible bulging of the package after closing.

The second mistake is packing in too large boxes. Packaging that is too large means higher shipping costs, more empty space and a greater risk of the product moving around inside. If the cardboard is larger than necessary, use appropriate filler.

The third mistake is packing the product "together". The carton may look fine before sealing, but when sealed, the sides may become tight and increase the external dimension of the package. Then the shipment may not fit the declared size.

The fourth mistake is using too weak cardboard for heavier products. If the product is heavy or has sharp edges, the cardboard should be strong enough and the contents should be well secured.

The fifth mistake is forgetting the shipping documents. It is worth using for larger numbers of packages courier tabsthat secure the bill of lading, invoice or transport documents.

Which parcel locker boxes should I choose for my online store?

An online store should have several box sizes, tailored to the most frequently sold products. It is not worth basing the entire shipment on one box, because different orders require different protection.

For small products, low cartons up to size A will be a good choice. For most standard orders, size B will be practical. For larger products, sets or shipments requiring more filling, it is worth choosing size C.

If you sell soft and pressure-resistant products, you can pack some of your orders in foil wraps. If you are sending small products that require cushioning, bubble envelopes will be practical. Choose cardboard when the product requires rigid protection, immobilization or aesthetic packaging.

FAQ – most frequently asked questions about parcel locker boxes