Shipping Oversized Items with UPS

Costs, Surcharges, and Smart Strategies

Shipping oversized items can feel overwhelming, especially when unexpected surcharges and size restrictions come into play. Whether you’re shipping large furniture, bulky equipment, or other oversized goods, understanding UPS’s guidelines is essential to avoid surcharge surprises and keep costs in check. From size limits and fees to practical strategies for reducing UPS surcharges, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about shipping oversized items with UPS. Plus, discover how partnering with experts like 3PL Center can make the process smoother and more cost-effective.

What Qualifies as Oversized with UPS?

UPS defines a package as oversized based on its dimensions and weight. A shipment is considered oversized if:

The length (longest side of the box) exceeds 96 inches, or

The length + girth ([(width x 2) + (height x 2)]) exceeds 130 inches.

Once your shipment meets these criteria, it will incur additional fees, as it requires special handling due to its size. But what about even larger items? If your package exceeds certain size or weight thresholds, it falls into the Over Maximum Size category, which has a different set of charges.

What Surcharges Apply for Oversized Items with UPS?

When shipping oversized items, UPS imposes several surcharges that depend on the size and weight of the package:

1. Large Package Surcharge

Domestic Shipments: A package is considered “Large” if its length plus girth exceeds 130 inches, or if the length exceeds 96 inches. International Shipments: A package is considered “Large” if its length plus girth exceeds 130 inches. Minimum Billable Weight: Large packages are subject to a minimum billable weight of 90 pounds. This means that even if the package weighs less than 90 pounds, UPS will charge shipping costs as if it weighed 90 pounds, accounting for its size and handling requirements. When the Large Package Surcharge applies, an Additional Handling charge will not be assessed. But it is important for shipments that require special handling due to their shape, packaging, or weight.

2. Over Maximum Limits Surcharge

If your package exceeds the Over Maximum Size limits, it will incur an additional surcharge. UPS has established the following size and weight restrictions:

Weight: Packages can be up to 150 pounds.

Length: Packages can be up to 108 inches in length.

Length + Girth: The total length plus girth can be up to 165 inches.

If a package exceeds these dimensions and UPS chooses to accept it (at their discretion), the Over Maximum Limits Fee will be applied. This fee is significantly higher due to the special handling and logistical requirements needed for extremely large or heavy items. Note: The Over Maximum Size surcharge applies to both domestic and international shipments, and UPS sets specific limits per country. For more details, check the Import/Export tool for international restrictions.

UPS Surcharge Rates for Oversized Shipments

Domestic Shipping Surcharges

International Shipping Surcharges

How to Calculate My Cost for Oversized Shipping with UPS

Calculating the cost of shipping oversized items with UPS involves understanding several key factors that influence the final price. These factors include dimensional weight, surcharges specific to the size of the package, and the type of destination (commercial or residential). Here’s how to estimate your shipping costs:

Determine Dimensional Weight: 

UPS calculates shipping charges based on the dimensional weight (if it exceeds the actual weight), which takes into account the volume of the package. The dimensional weight reflects the package’s volume rather than its actual weight, calculated by multiplying the length by the width by the height and dividing by a standard divisor. UPS uses this figure if it is greater than the actual weight.

Identify Applicable Surcharges:

Understanding which surcharges apply to your shipment is crucial for accurate cost estimation. Here are the key surcharges for oversized items when shipping with UPS:

Large Package Surcharge

Over Maximum Limits Fee

Additional Handling Fee (which won’t be assessed if large package surcharge applies)

Add Base Shipping Rate:

This is the initial cost of shipping before additional fees and varies by distance and service type (e.g., Ground, Express).

Example of Calculating Shipping Costs:

Assuming a package measuring 100 inches in length, 30 inches in height, and 30 inches in width, weighing 140 pounds, shipped domestically to a commercial address in Zone 2: Dimensional Weight Calculation: (100inx30inx30in)÷139=648lbs(100 in x 30 in x 30 in) ÷ 139 = 648 lbs(100inx30inx30in)÷139=648lbs (Since dimensional weight is greater than actual weight, it is used for the rate calculation.) Base Rate (UPS Ground, Zone 2): $300 (estimated for large, heavy items) Large Package Surcharge (Commercial, Zone 2): $160.00 Total Estimated Cost: $460 For an international shipment to Europe, assuming the same dimensions and weight: Base International Rate (UPS Worldwide Express): $800 (estimated for heavy items to Europe) Large Package International Surcharge: $220.00 Total Estimated Cost: $1,020 These examples use typical figures for oversized shipments and help you understand the detailed breakdown of costs involved in shipping oversized items both domestically and internationally. By calculating dimensional weight, adding the appropriate surcharges, and including the base rate, you can accurately estimate the total shipping cost.

How to Ship Oversized Items with UPS

Step 1: Packaging Your Item

The safety of your item during transit begins with proper packaging. Use sturdy, quality materials and secure all items within the box. For exceptionally large and heavy items or fragile items, building a custom wooden crate may be necessary.

Step 2: Measuring and Weighing

After packaging, accurately measure and weigh the box. These dimensions and weight help determine your shipping costs and ensure compliance with UPS’s oversized parameters.

Step 3: Scheduling a Pickup

Due to their size, it is often more practical to schedule a pickup for oversized items directly through UPS’s website or customer service, rather than attempting to drop them off.

Step 4: Selecting the Right Service

Choosing the right UPS service for your oversized shipment is crucial to balance cost and delivery speed. UPS Ground is a cost-effective option for domestic shipments, while UPS Worldwide Saver or UPS Worldwide Express may be better for international shipping. If you’re evaluating other options, check out our guide to finding the best carrier for oversized shipping to compare services and rates.

Strategies to Lower Oversized Shipping Charges

Shipping oversized items doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some strategies to reduce charges:

Optimize Packaging: Ensure your packaging is as compact as possible while still protecting the item. Avoid unnecessary bulk to prevent additional dimensional weight fees.

Measure Accurately: Ensure your package dimensions are accurate to avoid surprise fees. Measure the longest side, as well as the width and height, to determine the girth.

How 3PL Center Can Help Reduce Charges on Oversized Items

Partnering with 3PL Center offers a distinct advantage in reducing shipping costs for oversized items. Here’s how we make it easier:

Automated Bill Auditing: We audit all invoices to ensure that you’re charged correctly, ensuring that any negotiated rates or discounts are applied, and overcharges are identified and corrected.

Expert Packaging Solutions: Our team expertly packages your items to efficiently reduce the size-to-weight ratio, thereby minimizing dimensional weight charges.

Special Equipment for Handling: At 3PL Center, we are equipped with specialized handling equipment to safely manage oversized items, ensuring they are loaded and unloaded with the utmost care.

Mastering Oversized Shipping

Shipping oversized items requires careful planning, from understanding size limits and surcharges to choosing the right carrier and service. By following best practices for packaging and cost calculation, you can streamline the process and avoid unnecessary fees. Whether shipping domestically or internationally, being prepared ensures your oversized items are handled efficiently and arrive safely at their destination. Contact us today to learn how 3PL Center can help you with your oversized shipping and fulfillment needs.

UPS Oversized Shipping FAQs

Can I track my oversized shipment with UPS?

Yes, UPS provides tracking for all shipments, including oversized items. You can use the tracking number provided at the time of shipping to monitor your package’s journey in real-time through the UPS website or mobile app. Tracking includes updates on location, estimated delivery times, and any exceptions or delays. For oversized shipments requiring special handling, UPS tracking ensures complete visibility throughout transit.

What should I do if my oversized shipment needs to be delivered urgently?

For urgent deliveries of oversized items, consider using UPS’s expedited shipping options such as UPS Next Day Air or UPS 2nd Day Air. Keep in mind that expedited or overnight shipping for oversized items can be significantly more expensive, so it’s beneficial to plan in advance whenever possible to avoid these higher costs.

Are there seasonal variations in shipping costs for oversized items with UPS?

Yes, shipping costs for oversized items with UPS can increase during peak seasons, such as the holiday rush. During these times, UPS applies demand surcharges to account for higher shipping volumes and the additional resources needed to meet demand. These surcharges often impact oversized shipments more significantly due to their handling requirements. To navigate peak seasons effectively, businesses should plan ahead and consider demand fulfillment strategies, such as prioritizing inventory and scheduling shipments early, to mitigate the effects of these increased costs.

 What is the largest package size that UPS will ship?

UPS can ship packages up to 150 pounds in weight, 108 inches in length, and a total girth (length + 2 x width + 2 x height) of 165 inches. If your package exceeds these dimensions or weight, UPS may still accept it at their discretion, but an Over Maximum Limits Fee will apply. This fee is significantly higher to reflect the special handling and increased logistics required for such large shipments.

Can I ship oversized items to a P.O. Box with UPS?

No, UPS does not deliver oversized items to P.O. Boxes. Large packages typically require a physical shipping address for delivery due to their size and the special handling required.