Use packages and package presets in LaunchMyStore

A package preset is a saved box size you reuse when shipping orders. Defining packages helps the system calculate volumetric weight correctly, reduces label-buying friction, and avoids surprise reweigh charges from couriers.

Why packages matter

• Couriers bill by the higher of actual weight and volumetric weight.
• Volumetric weight = length × breadth × height / divisor. Each carrier uses a different divisor (typically 5000 for cm-based carriers, 139 for inch-based).
• If you declare just product weight without box dimensions, the courier reweighs at the hub and bills you the difference. Defining a package prevents this.

Product weight vs shipment weight

• Product weight — the weight of a single SKU as recorded in your catalog.
• Shipment weight — the total weight (actual or volumetric, whichever is higher) of the full package as it leaves your warehouse.

Example: a 30 × 30 × 30 cm box with two 0.3 kg t-shirts has product weight 0.6 kg but volumetric weight 30×30×30/5000 = 5.4 kg. The courier bills the higher 5.4 kg.

Create a package preset

1. Open Settings → Shipping & Delivery → Packages.
2. Click Add package.
3. Enter a name (for example Small box, Apparel mailer).
4. Fill in length, breadth, height (cm or inches).
5. Add the empty box weight (optional — counts towards total shipment weight).
6. Mark which warehouses stock this package.
7. Save.

Use the preset when shipping

When you click Ship on an order:

1. Pick the carrier (LaunchMyStore Delivery, Shippo, EasyPost, etc.).
2. Choose a saved package from the dropdown — dimensions auto-fill.
3. Confirm the weight (the system pre-fills based on product weights + empty box weight).
4. Pick the courier service from the live-rate list.
5. Pay and print the label.

Different carriers, different volumetric divisors

For the same 30 × 30 × 30 cm box:

• UPS, FedEx, DHL Express, DPD — divisor 5000 → 5.4 kg.
• BlueDart Air — divisor 4000 → 6.75 kg.

The system uses each carrier's divisor automatically when calculating rates, so you do not have to remember them.

Tips to avoid reweigh charges

• Always declare both weight and dimensions, not just weight.
• Use the smallest box that safely fits the items.
• Round weights up to the next 100 g.
• If you ship variable-size orders, define several package presets and pick the right one per order.

FAQ

Are packages mandatory?

No, but strongly recommended. Without dimensions the courier reweighs and may bill extra. Declaring the box upfront keeps shipping costs predictable.

How many package presets can I save?

There's no hard limit — merchants typically save 3–8 (mailer, small box, medium box, large box, etc.).

Can different warehouses have different packages?

Yes — tag each preset with the warehouses that stock it. The Ship dialog shows only the presets relevant to the order's warehouse.

How is the empty box weight used?

It is added to the product weight to compute the total actual weight of the package. That total is then compared to volumetric weight to find the billable weight.

What if a product needs its own custom package?

Create a one-off preset for it, or enter custom dimensions in the Ship dialog instead of picking a preset.