Adding Multiple Shipping Box Sizes

[Bkcoleman]

Hello! 

We are examining our shipping options. We currently used flat rate and would like to move towards weight based rate to cut some shipping costs. However, customers can buy a wide range of product sizes and quantities. Orders can range from 1 lb to 12 lbs. This means that we have nearly a dozen different box sizes to use. I am just a bit confused what the best shipping method would be for us that can account for the range of weights and box sizes. Thanks! 

[PluginHive]

Hi @Bkcoleman,

There has been a lot of queries regarding the use of multiple boxes for packaging and calculation of rates. Unfortunately, Shopify only offers one box size to be sent off for live rate calculations, regardless of the size of the actual order.

The problem with using Shopify's single box size is that you will be undercharging for some orders, and you will be responsible for paying out of pocket for the additional shipping cost. If you overcharge for shipping, customers might abandon their cart. 

Since you have multiple boxes to ship in, you would need a shipping app if you are looking to charge based on the dimensional weight of the package. This is the theoretical weight of the package based on the size, and carriers will always charge for the larger weight, whether it's dimensional or actual weight. I would suggest you look into the Multi Carrier Shipping Label app, that would help you automate the packaging process based on the product weight & dimensions. You can add custom boxes based on the product and the app automatically chooses the right box based on the customer input. Also, the app helps you handle the shipping process as well.

[csglouis]

But these apps don't allow you to then use the special rates that Shopify has with for example UPS. So... a big loss. 

Any other option? I don't understand how so many businesses on Shopify can put up with this...

[CarA2021]

Yes, I have to agree that this is unacceptable.  I really regret not researching this before migrating my store over to Shopify.  How this is even an issue in 2022 blows my mind.  

[PourAway]

Yes and its also super irritating that noone from shopify responds to questions that don't have a positive answer...  If there was an onboard solution to this or one in the works, there would be gurus telling us so.  but if theres not there is just tumbleweed.  

[josemartinblanc]

Hello Shopify support team, has this issue being resolved.  It is impacting my ability to move forward also considering the type of product I sell.

[Anindita]

Hi @josemartinblanc,

Unfortunately, Shopify is yet to introduce this feature. However, there are apps that help you to achieve this. Let me know if you are willing to know. I can help you with that!