Above-average size cardboard box
Large external dimensions may necessitate special service conditions or an alternative mode of transport.
Shipping for large and heavy shipments
Sending large packages – national and international
Ship large, heavy, or bulky packages with a solution tailored to dimensions, weight, product type, and destination country. Paket International combines shipping comparison, pickup, labeling, tracking, and, for shipments to third countries, customs and export documentation.
- ✓ Select the appropriate shipping method based on dimensions and weight
- ✓ Check parcel, bulky goods, pallet and freight solutions
- ✓ Manage pickup, shipping labels and tracking centrally
- ✓ Combining international shipments with customs preparation
Flexible shipping options
Package, bulky goods, pallet or freight
Direct pickup
At the company or warehouse location
National & worldwide
Suitable solutions for different goals
Customizable
For international shipments to third countries
More than a standard package
When is a shipment considered a large package?
A package becomes more logistically challenging as soon as its dimensions, weight, or shape deviate from the usual standard ranges. Then, not only length, width, and height, but also volume, stability, stackability, type of goods, and desired delivery determine the appropriate shipping solution.
Safely handle heavy packages
As weight increases, robust packaging, safe handling and suitable loading aids become increasingly important.
Long or irregular shipments
Rolls, pipes, furniture parts or unusually shaped goods can be classified as bulky goods.
Non-stackable or fragile goods
Sensitive surfaces and non-load-bearing packaging may limit the selection of available transport services.
The right shipping solution
Large package, bulky goods, pallet or freight.
Not every large shipment automatically needs to be transported by a freight forwarder. The appropriate shipping method depends on the dimensions, weight, shape, packaging, route, and acceptance conditions of the respective transport partner.
Large boxes and packages
First check
Large parcel in the parcel network
If the shipment falls within the permissible limits of an available parcel service, it can still be transported as a single parcel.
- Cardboard-shaped and securely sealed shipment
- Specify full dimensions and weight
- Note the service-dependent upper limits.
- Collection and tracking depending on the tariff
Long and unusual shapes
Special format
Bulky goods shipping
Long, round or irregularly shaped shipments may require special handling and be transported as bulky goods.
- Long or non-cubical packages
- Suitable outer packaging required
- Possible surcharges for bulky goods or handling
- Check service availability by route
Heavy and stable load units
Palletized
Pallet shipping
Heavy or multiple packages can be bundled on a load-bearing pallet and transported as a stable loading unit.
- Suitable for heavy or bundled goods
- The pallet must be able to safely support the weight.
- Secure goods against slipping and tipping over.
- Consider the loading conditions at the pickup location.
Large quantities and special requirements
Transport solution
Freight shipping
For larger quantities of goods, multiple loading units, or special loading and unloading conditions, an individual freight solution may be required.
- General cargo, partial or full load
- Planning according to volume and loading units
- Coordinate access and loading equipment
- International customs processes can be integrated
Calculate shipping costs correctly
What is crucial when shipping large packages
In order to determine a suitable shipping option, package details, type of goods, packaging and desired transport service must be fully known.
Exact external dimensions
Length, width and height must be measured at the outermost points of the fully packaged shipment.
Actual weight
The weight includes the goods, internal padding, outer packaging and, if applicable, the pallet used.
Volume and space requirements
Even light but very large shipments can fall into a higher tariff category due to their space requirements.
stackability
A stable, flat surface can simplify handling. Non-stackable goods require additional transport space.
Packaging quality
Cardboard packaging, padding and closure must withstand the weight, type of goods and the transport route.
Destination country and customs
For shipments to third countries, product details, invoice data and customs requirements must be taken into account before dispatch.
Sending large packages
Four steps to the right shipping solution
Complete shipment data helps to avoid unsuitable services, recalculations, and pickup delays.
Measure the entire package
Completely record external dimensions, weight, packaging shape and number of packages.
Compare shipping methods
Check whether parcel, bulky goods, pallet or freight shipping is suitable for the shipment and route.
Create labels and documents
Affix shipping labels and prepare customs documents for shipments to third countries.
Pick up and track
Make the shipment accessible and track it after it has been received using available tracking data.
Do not estimate dimensions and weight
Discrepancies between booked and actual shipment data may lead to additional charges, delays, or rejection by the carrier. Measure and weigh your fully packaged shipment before booking.
Pack securely
Preparing large and heavy packages for safe transport
Large packages are subjected to higher leverage, pressure, and impact loads during handling and transport. Packaging and padding must therefore be appropriate for the goods, their weight, and the intended transport route.
Sturdy cardboard box or transport crate
The outer packaging must not give way under the weight of the goods and must be able to be securely closed.
Completely fill cavities
The goods must not move within the packaging and should not have direct contact with the outer wall.
Secure edges and base additionally
Areas subject to particularly high stress can be stabilized by edge protection, intermediate layers or a reinforced base plate.
Attach the shipping label clearly visible.
Old barcodes must be removed or covered. The new label should be placed on a flat, easily readable surface.
Shipping destinations
Send large packages within Germany and abroad
The basic requirements regarding dimensions, weight, and packaging apply regardless of the destination. For shipments to third countries, additional information regarding goods, invoices, and customs duties must be provided.
Large packages nationally and within Europe
Compare available services based on the actual package data and the desired delivery destination.
- ✓ Fully record dimensions and weight
- ✓ Select a suitable transport service
- ✓ Prepare pickup and shipping label
- ✓ Track shipment after takeover
Large international packages with customs clearance
For shipments outside the common customs territory, shipping and customs data are prepared in a joint process.
- ✓ Full product description
- ✓ Goods value and customs tariff numbers
- ✓ Commercial or pro forma invoice
- ✓ Consider the DDP or DAP process
Quick orientation
Which shipping method is suitable for which shipment?
The table provides an initial overview. Actual availability always depends on specific shipment details, route, and chosen transport partner.
| feature | Large package | Bulky goods | pallet or freight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical form | Large, sturdy and closed cardboard box | Long, round, or irregularly shaped | Palletized or larger loading unit |
| Handling | Depending on the service in the packet network | Special manual or technical handling | Pallet trucks, forklifts or loading equipment |
| Suitable for | Large, individual items that can still be packaged | Long or non-standardized goods | Heavy, bundled, or multiple packages |
| Packing | Reinforced cardboard | Individual, custom-shaped packaging | pallet, crate or stable loading unit |
| Price factors | Dimensions, weight, zone and service | Additional features include shape and special handling. | Charging unit, weight, volume and route |
Applications
Shipping large packages for trade, industry and e-commerce
Different industries require a combination of parcel, bulky goods, pallet or freight shipping, depending on the product.
Online Stores
Process large customer orders and bulky products using a suitable shipping method.
Furniture and furnishings
Ship tables, chairs, shelves and larger furnishings safely for transport.
Engineering
Transporting components, assemblies and spare parts according to dimensions, weight and load requirements.
Automotive
Shipping vehicle parts, wheels and larger accessories nationally or internationally.
Electronics and technology
Transport large equipment with sturdy packaging, padding, and appropriate insurance.
sport and freetime
Transport sports equipment, models and other bulky goods with a suitable shipping solution.
Connecting shipping processes
Preparing and processing large shipments digitally
About Shop, ERP and WMS integrations or a Shipping API Order, address and product information can be imported and used for shipping preparation.
Frequently asked questions
FAQ about shipping large packages
Answers regarding dimensions, weight, packaging, bulky goods, pallet shipping, collection and customs.
How can I send a large package?
First, measure and weigh the fully packaged shipment. Based on dimensions, weight, shape, route, and type of goods, it can then be determined whether parcel, bulky goods, pallet, or freight shipping is appropriate.
At what point is a package considered large?
There is no uniform limit for all transport partners. Each service can set its own specifications for maximum length, dimensions, girth, weight, and packaging type.
How much does it cost to ship a large package?
The price depends on dimensions, weight, volume, shipping route, type of goods, transit time, and required transport capacity. Surcharges for bulky goods or special handling may also affect the total price.
When does a large package become bulky goods?
A shipment may be classified as bulky goods if, due to its length, shape, or nature, it cannot be processed through regular sorting facilities. The specific classification depends on the chosen transport service.
When should I ship a large package on a pallet?
A pallet can be useful if the shipment is very heavy, consists of several packages, or cannot be transported securely as a single cardboard box.
How should a large package be packed?
Use sturdy outer packaging, fill any empty spaces, and protect delicate edges and surfaces. The goods must not move inside the package.
Can a large package be picked up from my location?
Depending on the chosen transport partner and service, a pickup at a business address, a warehouse or another suitable pickup location can be booked.
Can I send large packages internationally?
Yes. The available shipping method depends on the destination country, dimensions, weight, and type of goods. For shipments to non-EU countries, complete customs and invoicing information must also be prepared.
What customs documents do I need for a large package?
Typically, a commercial or pro forma invoice and a complete list of goods items are required. Further documentation depends on the type of goods, their value, origin, destination country, and customs procedures.
Can a large package be sent as DDP?
Depending on the destination country, type of goods, transport partner, and customs process, DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) handling may be considered. In this case, agreed import costs are allocated to the shipper.
Can several large packages be shipped together?
Yes. Depending on the service, several packages can be ordered together or bundled on a pallet to form a stable loading unit.
Can I import shipping data from my shop or ERP system?
Yes. Order, address, goods and package data can be imported from existing systems via suitable integrations or the shipping API.
Send large packages using the appropriate shipping method
Capture dimensions, weight and destination address, compare suitable shipping options and combine pickup, labeling, tracking and international customs clearance in one structured process.
