Four numbers for every piece
Record length, width, height and gross weight in one consistent unit. For irregular furniture or building materials, use the outermost points, including handles, feet, brackets, pallet edges and crate battens.
Do not subtract empty spaces from an irregular shape. Freight equipment must still reserve the full external envelope around the packed item.
- Length: the longest packed side.
- Width: the widest packed side at any point.
- Height: the highest packed point from the base.
- Gross weight: product plus all packaging and pallet material.
Why piece-level data matters
A total of 1,000 kg could mean one stone slab, ten cabinets or fifty cartons. Each case needs different handling equipment, loading order and final delivery.
List identical pieces together, but separate pieces with different measurements or weights. Add an ID that can also appear on the packing list and crate label.
Container-door fit is not the same as internal volume
A piece may fit the nominal internal dimensions of a 40HQ container but still fail to pass through the actual door or leave no working clearance for a forklift, turning, blocking or securing.
Buildcargo Logistics therefore does not publish one universal maximum cargo dimension. Send the final packed dimensions, photos and loading method so the actual equipment can be checked.
For ordinary container cargo, final acceptance requires the packed piece to pass safely through the actual container door with practical handling clearance.
What photos to take
Photograph the measuring tape or scale where possible, and take the furniture or material from the front, side, top and lifting side. Include the current packing, fragile surfaces, long spans and any point that cannot bear weight.
If the supplier has not packed the item, photograph the product and ask for the proposed packing drawing or method. Mark all measurements as provisional until the final pack is complete.
Frequently asked questions
Should I send product dimensions or carton dimensions?
Send final packed dimensions. Product dimensions can be used for an early estimate only when clearly marked as provisional.
How should irregular cargo be measured?
Use the maximum outer length, width and height, including protrusions and packaging. The carrier must reserve the full external envelope.
Can I send total cubic metres only?
Send cubic metres plus piece-level dimensions and weight. Total volume alone does not show whether a piece can enter the container or be handled at the destination.
Why do measurements change after crating?
A pallet base, frame, crate, padding and moisture protection add both dimensions and weight. Those final numbers are the ones used for route and price confirmation.