Sending large packages can be challenging, especially when it comes to keeping costs low. Whether you need to send a large package domestically or ship large packages internationally, finding the cheapest and most efficient method is key. At ParcelParcel, we make it easy to compare rates and choose the best option for your needs.
Chantal has been writing about logistics topics for almost two decades and has worked for major international carriers.
Here are some tips to help you reduce costs when sending big parcels:
Optimize your packaging: Reduce size and weight where possible. Avoid excessive packaging that can increase costs.
Consolidate shipments: If sending multiple items, combine them into one package to save on per-shipment costs.
Choose economy services: Opt for standard or economy delivery instead of express services for lower rates.
Use ParcelParcel discounts: Access exclusive rates and promotions through our platform.
Compare shipping rates: Use our Shipping Tool Calculator to compare prices from leading carriers like Fedex, UPS, DHL and find the best deals.
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Shipping a large package doesn't have to be complicated. Here's how you can simplify the process:
Measure your package: Accurate dimensions and weight are crucial for getting an exact quote, check out this table for exact measurements:
DHL Express: Maximum dimensions are 120 cm (length and/or width) and 160 cm (height) / the maximum size is 1x length + 2x width + 2x height = 300 cm.
FedEx Economy + Priority: Maximum dimensions are 274 cm (length) / the maximum size is 1x length + 2x width + 2x height = 330 cm.
TNT Express:
- Netherlands: Maximum dimensions are 240 cm (length) x 120 cm (width) x 180 cm (height), and the maximum volume per shipment is 30 m³.
- Within the EU: Maximum dimensions are 240 cm (length) x 120 cm (width) x 150 cm (height), and the maximum volume per shipment is 3 m³.
- Outside the EU: Maximum dimensions are 180 cm (length) x 120 cm (width) x 150 cm (height), and the maximum volume per shipment is 3 m³.
TNT Economy:
- Within the EU: Maximum dimensions are 240 cm (length) x 120 cm (width) x 180 cm (height), and the maximum volume per shipment is 30 m³.
- Outside the EU: Maximum dimensions are 180 cm (length) x 120 cm (width) x 150 cm (height), and the maximum volume per shipment is 3 m³.
DPD: Maximum dimensions are 175 cm (length) / the maximum size is 1x length + 2x width + 2x height = 300 cm.
In addition to the maximum dimensions, there are also maximum weights per package. For example, you can send a maximum of 70 kg per package through DHL and TNT. If you'd like to read more about sending a heavy package, check out this page.
Select a carrier: Choose the most suitable carrier based on delivery time, cost, and service quality.
Book and pay online: Use ParcelParcel to book your shipment and pay securely.
Schedule pickup or drop-off: Arrange for a carrier pick-up or drop off your package at the nearest service point.
Track your shipment: Use our tracking tools to stay updated on your package's journey.
International shipping comes with its own set of challenges. Here's how to manage them effectively:
Check destination requirements: Ensure your package meets the destination country’s size and weight regulations.
Complete customs documentation: Fill out the necessary forms correctly to avoid delays.
Consider transit times: International shipments may take longer; plan accordingly.
Compare rates: Use our tarif calculator to find the most affordable and reliable international shipping options.
Sending large parcels can be simple and budget-friendly with ParcelParcel. Compare rates, streamline international shipping requirements, and enjoy personalized support to make the process stress-free. Save time and money—visit our large parcel shipping site or contact us today to start shipping smarter with ParcelParcel!
Use our Large Parcel Shipping Tool to compare rates from multiple carriers and find the lowest price.
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Optimize your packaging, consolidate shipments, and choose standard delivery options to save on costs.
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Generally, packages over 100 cm in length or 30 kg in weight are categorized as large. Always check carrier-specific guidelines.
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Yes! ParcelParcel offers real-time tracking tool for all shipments.
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Contact our support team for advice on alternative shipping solutions.
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You can instantly check the shipping costs through our rate calculator. Enter the weight, dimensions, and destination country of your shipment, and you will see all available shipping options along with their respective delivery times. The calculator can be used to compare shipping rates for both export and import shipments.
If you need help calculating a shipping rate, watch the video below. Click on the 
button to play the video and the 
icon to view the video in fullscreen.
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Shipping costs are calculated based on dimensions (LxWxH in cm), weight (in kg), and the destination country. Both the actual weight (as shown on the scale) and the volumetric weight are considered.
The volumetric weight is the weight calculated based on the space your shipment occupies in the plane. The higher of the two weights (volumetric or actual weight) is used to calculate the shipping rate. You don't need to calculate this yourself; our calculator does it for you.
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You can use the discount code PP10 for 10% discount on the transportation costs of your first shipment. You can apply the discount code during the checkout process (instructions).
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Whether additional costs apply depends on whether your shipment stays within the European Union or is sent to/from a country outside the European Union. Below, you can see the additional costs for each situation.
Within the European Union
If, for example, you send a shipment from the Netherlands to Italy (within the EU), there will be an additional 21% VAT on the shipping costs.
Furthermore, if your shipment stays within the European Union, you won't have to deal with any import duties or customs clearance fees because your shipment doesn't go through customs. Please note that the European Union is not the same as Europe.
View here all the countries that are part of the European Union. For example, Switzerland is part of Europe but not part of the European Union.
Outside the European Union
If, for example, you send a shipment from the Netherlands to the United States, there will be no VAT (0%) applied to the displayed shipping rates.
However, there might be import duties levied by customs in the destination country if you send a shipment to/from a country outside the European Union. Typically, customs costs are charged to the recipient. This is known as Delivered At Place (DAP) in logistics terminology.
Customs is a government agency that levies import duties in certain cases to protect the local market. As a company, you can also ship using Delivered Duty Paid (DDP), which means any customs costs will be charged to you as the sender.
If you have any questions about this topic, feel free to contact us. Additionally, you can read everything about import duties, VAT, and the customs clearance process in this blog.
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A customs invoice is a form where all the goods you want to ship are specified. This invoice includes an English description of the goods, along with their corresponding value and weight.
The contents of your shipment must be specified per type of product you're sending to avoid delays at customs. A customs invoice is always prepared in quadruplicate in accordance with customs guidelines.
When is a customs invoice required?
A customs invoice is only required for shipments to/from countries outside the European Union (e.g., Netherlands - United States). If your shipment stays within the European Union (e.g., Netherlands - Italy), your shipment will not go through customs, and therefore, a customs invoice is not required.
Additionally, document shipments are not subject to customs, so if you're sending a document to a country within/outside the European Union, no customs invoice is needed.
Please note that not all goods can be shipped to every country. You can find a list of goods that cannot be sent via ParcelParcel on this page.
Do I need to create a customs invoice myself?
If you're sending a shipment to/from a country outside the European Union, it's mandatory to include a customs invoice with the shipment. We provide free support in creating a customs invoice.
You can easily generate a customs invoice through our shipping platform. The customs invoice will be automatically generated based on the content you specified during your booking.
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You can import just as easily as export via ParcelParcel.
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You can find a list of goods that cannot be shipped via ParcelParcel on this page.
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