UPS offers online label printing services to help save you a trip to a physical location, but that can leave you wondering how to get the shipping materials you need.
So, you are probably asking, can you use any box to ship with UPS, and what else do you need to know about UPS rules on boxes? I researched it, and here’s everything I discovered!
Can I Use Any Box To Ship UPS In [currentyear]?
You can use any box to ship with UPS, provided it falls in line with UPS’ size regulations as of [currentyear]. You can use a box from another company like Amazon or FedEx, a branded box, or something else as long as it meets the size requirements for UPS and has a UPS label.
If you’re planning to ship your next package with UPS, keep reading to learn more about getting free shipping supplies and how to send your package properly!
What Kind Of Boxes Does UPS Accept?
Fortunately, UPS accepts all kinds of boxes, and the only restrictions are in regards to a package’s weight or size.
Further, these are the weight, size, and dimensional restrictions that will result in your package not being accepted for shipping as listed on the UPS website:
- Packages can be up to 150 lbs
- Packages can be up to 165 inches in length and girth combined
- Packages can be up to 108 inches in length
However, these aren’t the only weight, size, or dimensional restrictions.
For example, these are some circumstances regarding a package’s weight, size, and dimensions that can result in extra charges, known as shipping correction charges:
- A package with the longest side exceeding 48 inches or the second-longest side exceeding 30 inches
- A shipment where the average weight per package is greater than 50 pounds or packages over 50 pounds with the weight not specified on the source document or the UPS automated shipping system used
- A package that is not fully encased in corrugated cardboard
- A package with the incorrect weight or dimensions listed on the label
So, now that you know what to avoid when choosing a box for your next UPS package, what are some things you don’t need to worry about?
With that, the types of boxes UPS does accept include but aren’t limited to:
- Boxes from competitors (i.e., USPS, FedEx, Amazon, etc.)
- Branded boxes
- Old UPS boxes (provided they are in good condition)
- Diaper boxes (once again, as long as they’re in good condition)
When choosing a box for your UPS package, the most important things are to make sure it meets any dimensional restrictions, is in good condition, and is sturdy enough to withstand damage.
Also, UPS reserves the right to refuse any box it feels can’t stand up to potential damage in transit. However, UPS typically won’t so long as the box looks good and has a clear UPS label.
Moreover, to avoid any confusion when using an old shipping box, blackout or tear off any old shipping labels, even if they’re from UPS!
Are There Free Boxes At UPS?
Yes, UPS does provide free shipping materials. However, there are some requirements that you need to meet first.
To get free UPS boxes, you must order them online and have a UPS My Choice account, which you can make for free here.
Then, once you’ve created or logged in to your UPS account, use the drop-down shipping menu to select the “packaging and shipping supplies” tab.
From there, click any of the options on the page to navigate to the “order supplies” page, which is where you’ll find all sorts of categories of free shipping supplies, including boxes.
Once you’ve selected the boxes you want, all you’ll have to do is fill out shipping information, and the boxes will be shipped directly to your doorstep!
But, while getting free UPS boxes online is relatively easy, it’s important to keep in mind that this deal is only available online.
So, this means that if you need to pick up shipping supplies in person, such as at your local UPS Store, you can expect to pay between $1 and $5 per box.
Can You Ship A Wooden Box Through UPS?
Yes, you can ship a wooden box with UPS. However, there’s limited information on how you should do it.
UPS accepts pretty much any box, even wooden boxes, but when shipping with a wooden box, be sure you consider the extra weight and dimensions that the wood will add.
Also, the UPS Store builds crates for you, specifically around bigger pieces like furniture that need to be shipped.
That said, if you’re interested in using The UPS Store crate services, you can read more about it on this page of its website.
As far as using your own wooden crate to ship a package via UPS, as long as the package falls within the weight and dimension regulations and has a clear, current UPS label, there’s no reason you can’t!
To learn more, you can also read our posts on whether or not USPS takes UPS packages, how long does UPS holds packages, and if UPS gives free boxes.
Conclusion
You can use almost any box to ship a package with UPS, including branded boxes from its competitors or even wooden crates.
Typically, UPS won’t ship certain boxes due to it exceeding weight limitations, failing to have a UPS shipping label, or if the box isn’t sturdy enough.
Additionally, you can order boxes for free from the UPS website with a UPS My Choice account.
