Before you choose a box
Make a list of everything you plan to send and separate fragile items from heavy ones. Tell the courier about batteries, liquids, food or other items that may need special handling before packing them. Packing an item safely does not by itself confirm that it is accepted for your route.
Keep the receiver’s complete delivery address, postal or PIN code and reachable phone number ready. Use the spelling they use for receiving deliveries. Keep identification documents separate and follow the shipment-specific instructions from the office.
A practical packing checklist
- Choose a sound corrugated box. Avoid wet, torn, crushed or weakened cartons. Select a size that allows cushioning without leaving excessive empty space.
- Wrap items individually. Put soft protection between breakable surfaces. Prevent hard or sharp edges from pressing directly against the box walls.
- Keep heavy items stable. Place them low in the box and separate them from lighter or fragile contents. The package should be manageable without items shifting when it is moved.
- Fill gaps. Use suitable cushioning around and above the contents. Do not force the flaps shut or let the sides bulge.
- Seal the seams. Apply strong packing tape across the main opening and edge seams. The box must stay closed while being lifted and handled.
- Remove old shipping labels. Keep the current delivery label readable and flat. Avoid placing it across an opening or damaged area.
- Measure and weigh the finished parcel. Include the box, tape and protective material. Record each box separately if you have multiple packages.
Why a larger box can change your quote
The Blue Sky calculator compares actual weight with volumetric weight for each box. Its volumetric calculation uses centimetres: length × width × height ÷ 5000.
| Outside dimensions | Volumetric weight | Higher weight before rounding |
|---|---|---|
| 50 × 40 × 30 cm | 12 kg | 12 kg |
| 40 × 30 × 30 cm | 7.2 kg | 9 kg |
Use the smaller box only if it still provides adequate protection. These are weight examples, not price quotes. Read the full chargeable-weight calculation before comparing estimates.
For several boxes
Number your boxes and keep a contents list for each one. Enter each box’s actual weight and dimensions in the quote form. The calculator takes the higher weight for each box, adds those weights, then rounds the combined total up to the next whole kilogram. A combined 34.01 kg becomes 35 kg.
Before pickup or office drop-off
- Check that every box has been included in the quote.
- Confirm the destination and service speed with the office.
- Ask whether pickup, packaging or special handling is extra.
- Keep the booking reference available. A booking request is followed by confirmation of the shipment arrangements.
- If you change the box size or contents after estimating, calculate the quote again.
For eligible India shipments, see Canada-to-India courier options. For local collection questions, see Brantford pickup information. Availability and packaging suitability depend on the shipment.