UPS Largest Package Shipping – What You Need to Know
If you ever wondered how big a box you can send with UPS, you’re not alone. Many people think UPS only handles small parcels, but the company actually moves pallets, crates and even furniture. Knowing the exact limits saves you time, money and surprise fees.
Size and Weight Limits
UPS Ground and UPS Express let you ship packages up to 150 inches long (measured as length + width + height) and 150 pounds. Anything bigger or heavier moves into UPS Freight, the division that handles pallets, containers and large freight. UPS Freight can take items up to 300 inches in combined dimensions and 2,200 pounds per pallet, depending on the service you choose.
How to Pack and Book
First, measure your shipment carefully. Add length, width and height and compare it to the 150‑inch ceiling for regular services. If you cross that line, consider a pallet. Use a sturdy wood pallet, secure the load with shrink wrap, and label every side clearly. When you book, you can do it online or call UPS. The system will ask if you need freight pickup, and it will give you an estimated cost based on size, weight and distance.
Cost is the next big question. UPS calculates freight rates using a “dimensional weight” formula, which means large, light boxes can cost as much as heavy ones. A good trick is to keep the package as compact as possible—remove empty space, use the smallest box that fits, and weigh it before you get a quote. For pallets, UPS offers a rate‑on‑weight option and a rate‑on‑volume option; choose the one that gives the lower price.
Don’t forget insurance. UPS provides declared value coverage up to $100 per package for free. If your item is worth more, add extra coverage during checkout. It’s cheap compared to the cost of a lost or damaged large item.
Pickup options are flexible. If you have a freight case, UPS can send a driver to your door during business hours. For smaller oversized parcels, you can drop them at any UPS store or drop‑off location. Make sure the location can handle the size – some stores won’t accept packages over 150 pounds.
Tracking stays the same whether you ship a parcel or a pallet. UPS gives you a tracking number that updates at every checkpoint. For freight shipments, you’ll see milestones like “picked up,” “in transit,” and “delivered.” You can also set up delivery notifications to keep your customer in the loop.
Here’s a quick checklist before you send your biggest package: measure all sides, weigh the item, choose the right service (Ground, Express, or Freight), pack securely on a pallet if needed, add insurance, and book the pickup online. Follow these steps and you’ll avoid surprise fees and delivery delays.
Bottom line: UPS can move almost anything, as long as you respect the size and weight limits and use the right service. Whether it’s a large TV, a set of kitchen cabinets, or a stack of boxes on a pallet, the process is straightforward once you know the thresholds. So next time you need to ship a big item, grab a tape measure, check the limits, and let UPS handle the heavy lifting.
July 25, 2025
Evelyn Wescott
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Curious about how big a package UPS will really take? Learn the UPS size and weight limits, plus tips for shipping large parcels through UPS, with real rules and facts.
