ReadyToShip automatically calculates the optimal packing size for each parcel based on the dimensions of the items in an order.
Note: If your carrier does not require parcel dimensions when creating consignments, any dimensions shown in ReadyToShip will be ignored.
What is “Optimal Packing Size”?
The optimal packing size is an estimate of the parcel dimensions required to fit all items in an order. This calculation is based on the item dimensions you’ve entered in ReadyToShip.
How is it used?
This calculated size is used to:
Determine which of your predefined package sizes the order will fit into, or
Calculate an Estimated Package Size if you are using the “Use Item Dimensions” setting in your Package Settings
Important considerations
The optimal packing size is a guide only, not an exact packing solution.
As orders become more complex (e.g. more items or varied dimensions), it becomes harder to physically pack items into the calculated size. In practice, packing items efficiently can be challenging—similar to trying to fit a product back into its original packaging after opening it.
This is especially true for items with unusual shapes or sizes.
Example
Two items measuring 10 × 10 × 10 can easily fit into a 20 × 10 × 10 box
However, packing multiple items with different dimensions becomes significantly more difficult and may require a larger parcel than estimated
Recommendation
If the estimated package size seems unrealistic:
Review and adjust the parcel dimensions before creating the consignment
Ensure the dimensions you submit to your carrier accurately reflect the final packaged parcel