To order the right custom box, it’s critical to accurately communicate your packaging requirements, and there’s only one correct way to do that. In this post, we’ll share the right way to measure for the perfect box.
Measurement Terms
Corrugated box dimensions are stated in the order of length, width, and height (also referred to as depth) commonly abbreviated as L x W x H. The length is the longer of the two sides, and the width is the shortest. The height (or depth) is the distance between the opening side of the box and the opposite panel.
When you’re communicating measurements, it’s always smart to include units. Imperial dimensions should always be noted in inches (“) and metric dimensions should always be noted in centimeters (cm). When you order from Honeycorr, our default unit is inches. We prefer to receive order dimensions in
inches, but we can convert from centimeters if you need us to.
When to use Inside Dimensions
Because different box materials have different thicknesses, always measure and communicate the inner dimensions (ID) of your box. When you measure the object(s) that need to fit inside the box, also consider any packing materials that will be added to protect the contents. Custom boxes manufactured to the inner dimensions you specify will fit your contents, while outer dimensions will be ¼” to 1” larger, depending upon the thickness of the box material you select. When measuring the inside of an existing box, measure from the center of the score (fold line). Be sure to specify the measurements as inner dimensions, for example: 24"L x 18"W x 14"H ID.
When to use Outside Dimensions
This is a somewhat advanced consideration that doesn’t apply if you’re simply ordering a single box, but if you like to learn new things, read on! For shipping considerations such as forming cases from a set of same-size items, or creating pallet patterns, outer dimensions (OD) are used. Similarly, when determining the right equipment to erect, form, tape, or glue your corrugated case, outer dimensions are needed. Outer dimensions are also used for calculating shipping costs and determining pallet configuration. Specify the outer dimensions of your box using this format: 24.5"L x 18.5"W x 14.5"H OD.
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