UPS Package Restrictions: What You Can and Can't Ship
If you’ve ever tried to ship something with UPS, you know a surprise at the drop‑off can ruin the whole process. Knowing the rules up front saves time, money, and headaches. Below is a plain‑talk guide to the most important UPS restrictions, plus easy tips to get your package approved the first time.
Size and Weight Limits
UPS caps most parcels at 150 lbs and 108 inches in combined length and girth. Length is the longest side; girth is the distance around the package (width + height × 2). If you exceed either limit, you’ll need UPS Freight or a different carrier. For everyday boxes, keep the weight under 70 lbs and the dimensions below 48 × 38 × 25 inches – that’s the sweet spot most couriers handle without a hitch.
Prohibited and Restricted Items
Some things simply aren’t allowed on UPS trucks. Hazardous chemicals, fireworks, lithium batteries (unless they meet strict packaging rules), and weapons are off‑limits. Alcohol, tobacco and certain medicines fall under special permits – you can ship them, but you must follow a paperwork checklist. Live animals, perishable food without proper cooling, and any item that could leak or explode are also blocked.
When in doubt, check UPS’s "Prohibited Items" list before you pack. A quick search for the product name usually tells you if it’s banned or needs special labeling.
Packaging Tips to Pass Inspection
Even legal items can be rejected if they’re poorly packed. Use a sturdy box that’s not too big for the item – excess space can let things move and break. Seal all seams with strong packing tape; reinforced corners are a plus. For fragile goods, add bubble wrap or packing peanuts. If you’re shipping liquids, use a sealed inner container and then a watertight outer box with “FRAGILE – KEEP DRY” stickers.
Label your package clearly. The UPS barcode must be visible and not covered. If you’re sending hazardous materials, attach the proper UN number label and the “Dangerous Goods” tag. Incomplete labeling is a fast track to a return or a fine.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
People often forget to measure the package after adding padding. That extra bulk can push you over the size limit. We recommend measuring the final box before you create the shipment online. Another frequent slip‑up is using the wrong weight – a digital scale is worth the investment.
Finally, don’t stuff prohibited items into “secret” compartments. Couriers scan for dangerous goods, and a hidden violation can lead to a shipment being held, a fine, or even a ban from the carrier.
By staying within UPS’s size, weight, and content rules, you’ll keep your parcels moving smoothly. If you need a larger move or special handling, Dex Removals & Logistics Services can help you arrange freight or alternative shipping options.
Next time you head to the UPS store, run through this checklist, pack smart, and you’ll walk away with a receipt instead of a rejected package.
July 25, 2025
Evelyn Wescott
0 Comments
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.
