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How to Measure Your Box
Getting your box dimensions right is the first step to a perfect fit. This guide shows you how to measure correctly so your packaging fits your product and looks great.
The Basics
The Three Dimensions
Every box is defined by three measurements: Length, Width, and Height. These are always measured from the inside of the box, not the outside. Always provide dimensions in this order: Length x Width x Height (L x W x H). The packaging industry in Canada works in millimetres.
LENGTH (L)
The longest side of the box opening, measured inside.
WIDTH (W)
The shorter side of the box opening, measured inside.
HEIGHT (H)
The distance from the bottom to the top, measured inside.
The most common mistake is measuring from the outside of the box. Material thickness adds 1–3mm per side, so an outside measurement can be 2–6mm larger than the actual interior space.
Step by Step
How to Measure Your Product
01
Measure your product
Place your product on a flat surface. Measure the length, width, and height at its widest points using a ruler or callipers. Record in millimetres.
02
Add clearance
Add 2–3mm of clearance to each dimension. This allows the product to slide in and out of the box easily without being too loose. For fragile items, add extra room for padding.
03
Account for inserts
If you plan to include tissue paper, foam inserts, or printed cards inside the box, add their thickness to your dimensions. A foam insert can add 5–10mm per side.
04
Test with a mock-up
Before committing to a full production run, request a structural sample. This lets you test the fit with your actual product and make adjustments before printing begins.
Pro Tips
Things to Keep in Mind
Always measure from the inside
Box dimensions refer to the interior space — not the outside of the box. The inside measurements determine whether your product fits. The outside will be slightly larger depending on material thickness.
Place your product first
Put your product on a flat surface, measure it at its largest point, then add 2–3mm of clearance on each side. A box that's too tight makes it hard to insert the product.
Account for inserts and padding
If your product needs tissue paper, foam inserts, or a printed card inside the box, add the thickness of those materials to your dimensions.
Consider the closure
Tuck-end boxes need extra height clearance for the tuck flap to fold in. Leave at least 5mm of headroom above the product for tuck-end styles.
Measure in millimetres
The packaging industry in Canada works in millimetres. If you measure in inches, we can convert — but mm is more precise and avoids rounding errors.
Send us the product
If you're not sure about measurements, you can send us a sample of your product. We'll measure it, recommend the best box size and style, and send a structural sample to test fit.
Not Sure About Your Measurements?
Send us your product dimensions and we'll recommend the perfect box size, style, and material.
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