When someone calls us and says, "I want a normal box," we always ask the same thing: normal for what? The perfect box for shipping cosmetics is ridiculous for a move, and a moving box is wasteful for an e-commerce accessory business.
This guide brings order: the standard sizes available, what each range is used for, and how to choose yours right the first time. At TeleCajas, we work with more than 40 sizes of cardboard boxes, so we speak from experience.
A note before we begin: measurements are always given as length × width × height. If you're unsure how to interpret that, we explain it here: how to measure a cardboard box.
Standard Size Chart by Use
| Measurement Range (cm) | Size | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| From 10×10×10 to 30×20×15 | Small | Accessories, cosmetics, jewelry, spare parts, marketplace shipments |
| From 31×22×11 to 40×30×30 | Medium | E-commerce standard: clothing, footwear, books, small batches |
| From 50×40×30 to 60×40×40 | Large | Batches, multiple orders, storage, bulky textiles |
| Approx. 55×35×35 and packs | Moving | Books and household items (better small-medium), clothes and home (large) |
| More than 100 cm on one side | Long and Flat | Paintings, mirrors, TVs, bicycles, tubes, closet rods |
Each range has its collection: small and medium, large and giant, tall and long, for paintings and TVs and complete moving packs.
The Best-Selling Size (and Why)
If we had to pick one: the 40×30×30 and its close variants. It's the all-rounder of e-commerce—it fits almost any average order, stacks well on European pallets (two across, just right), and doesn't inflate volumetric weight.
It's no coincidence that a European pallet measures 120×80 cm: "round" measurements like 40×30, 60×40, or 30×20 fit on its base without leaving gaps. If you palletize, choose multiples, and you'll fit more merchandise per trip—we explain it in primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging.
How to Choose Your Size in Three Steps
- Measure the product (including protrusions) and add clearance: 2-3 cm per side if it's fragile, snug if not.
- Think about transportation. The box defines the volumetric weight and the shipping price bracket—this is explained in how much it costs to ship a package. In general: it's better to have two fitted sizes than one large "all-purpose" one.
- Think about weight. A large box full of books is impossible to transport and will burst. If you're loading more than 15-20 kg, check how much weight a box can hold and consider double-wall corrugated.
For Moves: Fewer Sizes, More Discernment
The combination that works: small-medium boxes for dense items (books, dishes, pantry) and large ones for light items (clothes, duvets, lamps). This way, no box exceeds 15-20 kg, and your back will thank you.
How many do you need? We have a free moving box calculator and complete packs with tape and bubble wrap included.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common cardboard box size?
The 40×30×30 cm and its variants are the de facto standard in e-commerce and light moves: medium capacity, good stacking on European pallets, and controlled volumetric weight.
What size box do I need to ship clothes?
For 1-3 folded garments, a medium box like 31×22×11 or similar; for larger orders, 40×30×20. If the garment is not delicate, you can also consider an envelope—we compare options in boxes vs. envelopes.
What box should I use for books?
Small or medium, never large: paper is extremely heavy. A 30×20×20 box full of books already weighs around 10-12 kg.
What if no standard size fits me?
Write to us: among more than 40 sizes, there's almost always one that works, and for B2B volumes, we study custom options. WhatsApp: +34 665 53 23 58.
Your Size, in 24-48 hours
All our boxes are shipped within 24-48 hours to the Iberian Peninsula, Balearic Islands, and Portugal, with VAT included in the price and free shipping from €30. No minimum order: order one to try if you wish.
