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 that exist, 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 start: 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.
Table of standard sizes 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 (preferably small-medium), clothing and home goods (large) |
| More than 100 cm on one side | Long and flat | Paintings, mirrors, TVs, bicycles, tubes, closet rods |
In the catalog, for example, you have the 40×30×30 cm cardboard box, the 60×40×40 cm moving box, and the 34.5×21×12.5 cm self-assembly postal box.
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 for e-commerce—it fits almost any average order, stacks well on a Euro pallet (two across, snug), and doesn't inflate volumetric weight.
It's no coincidence that the Euro pallet measures 120×80 cm: "round" measurements like 40×30, 60×40, or 30×20 fit onto 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 (with protrusions) and add leeway: 2-3 cm per side if it's fragile, snug if it's not.
- Consider 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" size.
- Consider the 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 opt for double-wall.
For moves: fewer sizes, more discernment
The combination that works: small-medium boxes for dense items (books, dishes, pantry) and large boxes 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 including tape and bubble wrap.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most commonly used 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 Euro pallets, and contained volumetric weight.
What box size 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 my needs?
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 h
All our boxes are shipped within 24-48 hours to the 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.
