Package weighing, One of the most common questions among beginner shippers is “How can I weigh packages at home?” Well, if you’re looking for a simple answer, you can weigh parcels on any scale.
In fact, you can do this on a kitchen scale as long as it gives accurate measurements to the nearest ounce. That said, though, we recommend springing for a shipping scale if you really want to weigh packages like a pro. Shipping scales are calibrated to give the most accurate measurements for your packages.
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How Do You Weigh Something Without a Scale?
You might be tempted to think that it’s impossible to weigh your parcel without a scale at home. But after reading this suggestion, you’ll realize it’s more accessible than ever. You just need to have some clothes hangers in your closet, as they will be crucial for this process. Here’s what you need to do:
Find a sturdy clothes hanger that can withstand some weight. Attach two bags to either side of the hanger, making sure that the bags can support the weight of the items.
Place something of known weight into one of the bags. This could be a couple of kilos of your stocked flour, a couple of liters of milk/water, or something else of your choosing. Then put the items that you want to measure on the other side of the hanger, in the other bag.
Hang the hanger from secure support and balance out the two bags. And there you have package weighing; a simple DIY balance scale that you can use at home.
Other Alternatives to Measuring Packages without a Scale
If you’re not sure about the weight of your item, there are a few ways to get an approximate weight. You can try using a weight measurement app like Working Scale Free or 3 Grams Digital Scales & Weight Measurement. These apps work best for smaller items.
Another way to get an approximate weight is to look up the weight of common items similar to what you’re sending. For example, a medium-sized teddy bear typically weighs 400 grams, a book typically weighs 450 grams, shoes typically weigh 700 grams, and jeans typically weigh 500 grams.
If you’re planning on sending packages from home on a regular basis, investing in a postal scale might be worth it in the long run. Some online shipping companies even provide a scale when you sign up for their monthly services.
Package weighing only measuring a small amount, you can use a bathroom scale. In case your scale is sensitive enough, you can just place the package on the scale.
In case that method doesn’t work, consider weighing yourself first. Then weigh yourself holding the package and subtract the difference. Another approach is to combine the weight of the item and the packaging. The weight of the packaging can be found online
At this point, you should have an idea of the approximate weight of your items. You can check the standard weight of the items you plan to ship online, but keep in mind that couriers might not settle for an estimate.
If you have an overweight parcel, the courier driver may not pick it up or may charge you for the additional weight. To avoid this, you might want to reach out to your neighbors and see if anyone has a scale you can borrow.
What to Do if Your Package Turns Overweight
Even though we have given you some useful tips on how to weigh something without a scale, they may not be 100% accurate. Consequently, the courier company might easily refuse the pick-up, or if the driver collects it, he/she might return the package to your address the next day. The courier could also ask you for an additional handling surcharge.
In order to avoid any delays, do not give your package to the courier if they have already arrived at your address. If you are certain that your parcel weighs more than what you paid for, the first step would be to contact your courier company or logistics booking platform to notify them of the situation. The company will cancel the order and inform the courier that they should not deliver to your address. From there, you can easily schedule a package pick-up for the following day.
Can You Weigh packages at Home Using a Kitchen Scale?
Of course, yes. A kitchen scale is a great way to weigh packages if you need to get an idea of how much something weighs. These scales are fairly accurate, but it’s important to keep in mind that each model is different.
To make sure that the scale you have will work for your needs, check that it goes to a high enough weight to adequately weigh your package. Once you’ve done that, carefully place your item in the middle of the scale.
How Can You Calculate Dimension Weight?
Dimensional weight is a way of measuring the amount of space a package takes up in relation to its actual weight. Most shipping companies take both actual weight and dimensional weight into account when calculating shipping charges.
To calculate dimensional weight, you need to multiply the length, width, and height of the package in inches, then round to the nearest whole inch. You can use a ruler or measuring tape if you have one handy. If not, there are printable rulers available online.
There are a few ways you can measure the dimensions of a package. One is to use a common object, such as an 8.5″x11″ piece of printer paper. Just fold the paper in half for smaller packages.
You can also use a measuring app. There are various apps that you can download to help determine the dimensions of a package; thanks to the magic of your phone camera. The results are mostly in the cubic size of the package and you can use them to determine the minimum density.
Additional Tips for Weighing/measuring Packages at Home
Before weighing or measuring your package, it’s important to make sure it’s fully sealed up. This will help to achieve the most accurate figures. If the package doesn’t have a regular shape, simply take the longest points of each dimension.
Taking pictures and documenting the entire weighing and measuring experience is always a good idea. This is how you get photo evidence to help clear things up, should there be any disputes over the figures or if your package becomes damaged or lost.
