Part XI

Packaging, cartonization and dimensional weight

Published articles open now; the rest are coming soon.

11.1Packaging basics

11.1Boxes vs. poly mailers vs. padded mailers: choosing the right packageComparisonComing soon
11.1Void fill and protective materials comparedExplainerComing soon
11.1Corrugated board grades, edge crush and burst strength, explained simplyExplainerComing soon
11.1Ships-in-own-container (SIOC) and frustration-free packagingExplainerComing soon

11.2What is dimensional (DIM) weight, and how is it calculated?Explainer9 min
11.2DIM divisors explained, and why your contract's divisor mattersExplainerComing soon
11.2How carriers round dimensions and weightsExplainerComing soon
11.2Billable weight: actual vs. dimensional, and which winsComparisonComing soon
11.2How DIM rules differ by carrier and service (ground, postal, freight)ExplainerComing soon
11.2Worked example: how one inch of box size changes a shipping billExplainerComing soon

11.3What is cartonization, and how does a WMS choose a box?ExplainerComing soon
11.3Right-sizing your box suite: how many sizes is optimal?CalculatorComing soon
11.3Auditing whether your 3PL uses the right boxHow-toComing soon
11.3Fit-to-size and on-demand packaging machinesExplainerComing soon
11.3Multi-item orders: packing efficiency and consolidationExplainerComing soon

11.4Why accurate product weights and dimensions matter at a 3PLExplainer10 min
11.4How to measure products: manual, cubing machines, supplier specsHow-toComing soon
11.4Validating billed shipping weights against expected weightsExplainerComing soon
11.4Spotting systematic overbilling from bad weights or dimsExplainerComing soon
11.4Keeping the product master current when packaging changesExplainerComing soon

11.5Packaging cost vs. freight cost vs. damage rate: finding the balanceComparisonComing soon
11.5Damage testing: ISTA standards and simple drop testsExplainerComing soon
11.5Tracking damage rates by SKU and package typeExplainerComing soon
11.5Who pays for packaging, and how 3PLs mark it upExplainerComing soon

11.6Custom packaging at a 3PL: lead times, minimums and storageExplainerComing soon
11.6Managing packaging inventory at your 3PLExplainerComing soon
11.6Seasonal and limited-edition packaging changesExplainerComing soon
11.6Sustainable packaging optionsExplainerComing soon